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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOARD STANDING COMMITTEES - 08242020 - Sustainability Cte Min Pkt CONTRA COSTA COUNTY SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION An Advisory Body to the Board of Supervisors August 24, 2020, 5:00 P.M. To slow the spread of COVID-19, the Health Officer’s Shelter Order of April 29, 2020, prevents public gatherings (Health Officer Order). In lieu of a public gathering, the Sustainability Commission will be meeting via remote access per Governor’s Executive Order N29-20. Howdy Goudey, Chair, At-Large, Community Group Nick Despota, Vice-Chair, Member, District 1 Shoshana Wechsler, Alternate, District 1 Victoria Smith, Member, District 2 Ryan Buckley, Alternate, District 2 John Sierra, Member, District 3 Mike Moore, Alternate, District 3 Wes Sullens, Member, District 4 Travis Curran, Alternate, District 4 Charles Davidson, Member, District 5 Reneé Fernandez-Lipp, Alternate, District 5 Harry Thurston, At-Large, Community Group Russell Driver, At-Large, Business Nicholas Snyder, At-Large, Business Vacant, At-Large, Environmental Justice Sarah Foster, At-Large, Environmental Justice Kim Hazard, At-Large, Education Agenda Items: Items may be taken out of order based on the business of the day and preference of the Committee JOIN VIA WEB OR TELEPHONE: Audio will be played over your device’s speakers. If you will not have access to a computer or mobile device and require telephone access, you may dial-in. Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://cccounty-us.zoom.us/j/98707057552 Meeting ID: 987 0705 7552 Or Telephone: Dial: USA 214 765 0478 USA 8882780254 (US Toll Free) Conference code: 198675 1. Call to Order and Introductions 2. Public Comment 3. APPROVE Record of Action for June 22, 2020 meeting. 4. DISCUSS and PROVIDE INPUT to Draft Environmental Justice Policies for General Plan 5. RECEIVE Reports from Sustainability Commission members and alternates, and PROVIDE DIRECTION as needed. 6. RECEIVE Report from Sustainability Coordinator. 7. RECEIVE Report from Sustainability Commission Chair and IDENTIFY TOPICS for next report to Ad Hoc Committee on Sustainability. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 1 of 45 8. The next meeting is currently scheduled for October 26, 2020. 9. Adjourn The Sustainability Commission will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities planning to attend Commission meetings. Contact the staff person listed below at least 72 hours before the meeting. Any disclosable public records related to an open session item on a regular meeting agenda and distributed by the County to a majority of members of the Commission less than 96 hours prior to that meeting are available for public inspection at 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA during normal business hours. Staff reports related to items on the agenda are also accessible on line at www.co.contra-costa.ca.us. Public comment may be submitted via electronic mail on agenda items at least one full work day prior to the published meeting time. For Additional Information Contact: Jody London, Commission Staff · jody.london@dcd.cccounty.us · Phone (925) 674-7871 · Fax (925) 674- 7250 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 2 of 45 Glossary of Acronyms, Abbreviations, and other Terms (in alphabetical order): Contra Costa County has a policy of making limited use of acronyms, abbreviations, and industry-specific language in meetings of its Board of Supervisors and Committees. Following is a list of commonly used abbreviations that may appear in presentations and written materials at meetings of the Ad Hoc Sustainability Committee: AB Assembly Bill ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments ACA Assembly Constitutional Amendment ADA Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District BART Bay Area Rapid Transit District BAYREN Bay Area Regional Energy Network BGO Better Government Ordinance (Contra Costa County) BOS Board of Supervisors CALTRANS California Department of Transportation AO County Administrative Officer or Office CAP Climate Action Plan CARB California Air Resources Board CCA Community Choice CCE Community Choice Energy Aggregation CCWD Contra Costa Water District CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CSA County Service Area CSAC California State Association of Counties DCC Delta Counties Coalition DCD Contra Costa County Dept. of Conservation & Development DPC Delta Protection Commission DSC Delta Stewardship Council DWR California Department of Water Resources EBEW East Bay Energy Watch EBMUD East Bay Municipal Utility District EIR Environmental Impact Report (a state requirement) EIS Environmental Impact Statement (a federal requirement) FTE Full Time Equivalent FY Fiscal Year GHG Greenhouse Gas GGRF Greenhouse Gas Reduction Funds GIS Geographic Information System HSD Contra Costa County Health Services Department IPM Integrated Pest Management JPA/JEPA Joint (Exercise of) Powers Authority or Agreement LAMORINDA Area of Lafayette-Moraga-Orinda MAC Municipal Advisory Council MBE Minority Business Enterprise MOA Memorandum of Agreement MOE Maintenance of Effort MOU Memorandum of Understanding MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission NACo National Association of Counties NEPA National Environmental Protection Act PDA Priority Development Area PV Photovoltaic PWD Contra Costa County Public Works Department RDA Redevelopment Agency or Area RFI Request For Information RFP Request For Proposals RFQ Request For Qualifications SB Senate Bill SGC Strategic Growth Council SR2S Safe Routes to Schools TWIC Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee U.S. EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency WBE Women-Owned Business Enterprise 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 3 of 45 Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission 3. Meeting Date: 8/24/2020 Subject: APPROVE Record of Action for June 22, 2020, Sustainability Commission Meeting Department: Conservation & Development Presenter: Jody London, DCD Contact: Jody London, (925) 674-7871 Referral History: County Ordinance (Better Government Ordinance 95-6, Article 25-205, [d]) requires that each County Body keep a record of its meetings. Though the record need not be verbatim, it must accurately reflect the agenda and the decisions made in the meeting. Referral Update: Any handouts or printed copies of testimony distributed at the meeting will be attached to this meeting record. Links to the agenda and minutes will be available at the Committee web page, to be announced. Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s): Staff recommends approval of the attached Record of Action for the February 24, 2020, Sustainability Commission Meeting with any necessary corrections. Fiscal Impact (if any): N/A ATTACHMENT(S) June 22, 2020 Draft Record of Action 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 4 of 45 D R A F T Record of Action CONTRA COSTA COUNTY SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION An Advisory Body to the Board of Supervisors June 22, 2020 5:00 P.M. This meeting occurred via remote access per Governor’s Executive Order N-20- Howdy Goudey, Chair, At-Large, Community Group Wes Sullens, Vice Chair, Member, District 4 Nick Despota, Vice-Chair, Member, District 1 Shoshana Wechsler, Alternate, District 1 Victoria Smith, Member, District 2 Ryan Buckley, Alternate, District 2 John Sierra, Member, District 3 Mike Moore, Alternate, District 3 Travis Curran, Alternate, District 4 Charles Davidson, Member, District 5 Reneé Fernandez-Lipp, Alternate, District 5 Harry Thurston, At-Large, Community Group Russell Driver, At-Large, Business Nicholas Snyder, At-Large, Business Doria Robinson, At-Large, Environmental Justice Sarah Foster, At-Large, Environmental Justice Kim Hazard, At-Large, Education Agenda Items: Items may be taken out of order based on the business of the day and preference of the Committee Present: Howdy Goudey, Chair, At-Large, Community Group Wes Sullens, Vice Chair, Member, District 4 Nick Despota, Member, District 1 Shoshana Wechsler, Alternate, District 1 Victoria Smith, Member, District 2 Ryan Buckley, Alternate, District 2 Mike Moore, Alternate, District 3 Travis Curran, Alternate, District 4 Charles Davidson, Member, District 5 Reneé Fernandez-Lipp, Alternate, District 5 Harry Thurston, At-Large, Community Group Sarah Foster, At-Large, Environmental Justice Russell Driver, At-Large, Business Kim Hazard, At-Large, Education Absent: John Sierra, Member, District 3 Doria Robinson, At-Large, Environmental Justice Nicholas Snyder, At-Large, Business Staff Present: Demian Hardman, Senior Energy Planner, Dept. of Conservation and Development Jody London, Sustainability Coordinator, Dept. of Conservation and Development Cindy Cortez, Climate Corps Fellow, Dept. of Conservation and Development Attendees: Given the online meeting format, it was not possible to circulate a sign-in sheet. 1. Call to Order and Introductions 2. Public Comment There was no Public comment. 3. APPROVE Record of Action for December 9, 2019 meeting. The Record of Action for the February 24, 2020 meeting was approved. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 5 of 45 Motion: Nick Despota. Second: Victoria Smith. All voted Yes except Wes Sullens, who abstained. 4. ELECT OFFICERS for the Sustainability Commission for 2020. Victoria Smith nominated Harry Thurston for Chair. Harry Thurston declined. Victoria Smith nominated Nick Despota for Chair. Nick Despota declined. The Commission voted unanimously for Howdy Goudey to continue as Sustainability Commission Chair. Nick Despota nominated Wes Sullens for Vice-Chair. The Commission voted unanimously on this nomination. 5. PROVIDE INPUT to Climate Emergency Resolution. Howdy Goudey provided an update on the status of the Climate Emergency Resolution. Jody London provided additional updates on the Climate Emergency Resolution. She reported back on the direction provided from the Sustainability Committee in the meeting held on May 29th. London provided a summary of the changes made to the Climate Emergency Resolution in the draft presented to the Commission. A ‘redline’ version of the resolution was attached to the meeting agenda where the changes can be read. She encouraged the Commission to make their recommendations on the latest draft of the Climate Emergency Resolution. Wes Sullens asked if there are any actions established relating to the additions and changes made to the Climate Emergency Resolution. London said there is a timeline in the draft resolution for the establishment of the interdepartmental task force and a regular reporting requirement twice a year to the Board of Supervisors. Increased flexibility is given in the draft resolution to the Sustainability Commission that could facilitate the establishment of a Just Transition working group, although no official timeline is set in place. Nick Despota commented on a change made regarding the County’s electrification reach code. He asked if it is possible to include language around building decarbonization and require low-carbon building materials during construction in residential buildings, like Marin County. Kimberly Hazard asked about the terminology change reflected in the Climate Emergency Resolution, regarding disadvantaged communities. Sarah Foster responded to the reasoning behind the change in terminology to “communities of concern”. During public comment, Steve Morse, Just Transition Levin Richmond Terminal Working Group member, commented on the fossil fuel phase out clause. He asked the Commission to support the text included in agenda packet Item #5. He said it is essential for the County to develop a just transition phase out of fossil fuels in order to ensure fossil fuel workers continue to maintain proper paying jobs. Jacob Klein and Debi Clifford, members of the Just Transition Levin Richmond Terminal Working Group, supported Steve Morse’s comment and urged the commission to support the inclusion of an additional just transition working group or commission for Contra Costa. Carol Weed commented on the clause in the Climate Emergency Resolution regarding the proposed statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions goals of zero emissions by year 2060. She commented that the zero- emissions goal should come sooner. Dave Casey, Walnut Creek resident, commented on the County’s goals regarding GHG reductions of 20% below 1990 levels by 2030. He commented on the lack of accountability from the County in the climate 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 6 of 45 emergency resolution and lack of specific actions in order to achieve the proposed GHG reductions goals by the County. Marti Roach commented on the lack of capacity in the Commission’s ability to organize a Just Transition working group without support from the County. She said the current wording reflected in the climate emergency resolution regarding the establishment of a just transition working group is unclear. The Chair closed the public comment section. Jody London suggested the Commission include the proposed changes in a motion in order to bring the Commission’s priorities forward to the Sustainability Committee. Members of the Commission discussed additional issues. Harry Thurston suggested changing the date of the County’s goals regarding zero emissions to 2040. Shoshanna Wechsler agreed on the Commission’s lack of capacity to take on the implementation of a Just Transition task force. Wes Sullens agreed on including more aggressive GHG reduction targets beyond State goals. He supported including language around low-carbon building materials requirements, and asked if it is possible to report directly to Board of Supervisors. He also suggested extending the building electrification reach code to all buildings, not only residential. Mike Moore commented on the economic impact of decommissioning of fossil fuel plants, and the need to include key stakeholders in the process. Travis Curran supported the need for more aggressive GHG reduction targets in the climate emergency resolution. He commented on the importance to think about the future after the COVID-19 pandemic, and he suggested that the County should incentivize businesses to encourage remote work. Ryan Buckley commented that the climate emergency resolution should be more aggressive in order to push policy effectively and suggested that the resolution should include the decommissioning of fossil fuel plants. Victoria Smith supported suggestions to include all building types in building electrification reach codes. She suggested including language regarding agricultural preservation. Charles Davidson commented on the proposed GHG reduction targets, and said that the industrial sector and refineries should be prioritized when planning for GHG reductions. Sarah Foster commented on the need to move away from car dependency and the need for alternative transportation infrastructure. The Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Climate Emergency Resolution include: 1. Adopt more aggressive greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets than those adopted by the State, with a goal of zero emissions by 2035. 2. Develop a building electrification reach code that includes all building types, not only residential. 3. Adopt specifications for low-carbon building materials in all construction in the unincorporated County and in County facilities. 4. Promote agricultural preservation with emphasis on lowering agricultural carbon emissions and helping to realize increased agricultural productivity and revenue streams associated with regenerative carbon sequestration in soil. 5. Establishing a bi-annual report from the County Interdepartmental Task Force to the Board of Supervisors. 6. Require reporting from staff on issues in the Climate Emergency Resolution directly to the Board of Supervisors. 7. Encourage Contra Costa employers and businesses to incentivize remote work. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 7 of 45 8. Provide direction for additional infrastructure for alternative modes of transportation including bicycling, walking, and public transportation. 9. The Just Transition task force will be initiated by the Sustainability Commission, with the understanding that it is envisioned to grow beyond the Commission’s scope of work. Motion: Victoria Smith. Second: Kim Hazard 6. DISCUSS nominations for Sustainable Contra Costa Leadership in Sustainability Award and Green Buildings Award and PROVIDE DIRECTION, if needed Leadership Award nominee No leadership award nominees. Green Buildings Award nominee No green building award nominees. 7. DISCUSS County Policy on Oil Drilling in Contra Costa County and PROVIDE DIRECTION, if needed. Shoshana Wechsler discussed a proposal for the Board of Supervisors to modify the policy regarding oil drilling in Contra Costa County. She recommended the Commission submit a letter to the Board asking it to: 1) Direct the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) to enact an immediate moratorium on any further oil and gas permitting during the course of the current general plan and zoning code updates 2) Direct DCD to revise the conservation element of the general plan and pertinent zoning codes relating to oil and gas production. Victoria Smith moved for the Commission to: 1) Submit a letter to the Board asking it to direct DCD to enact an immediate moratorium on any further oil and gas permitting during the course of the current General Plan and zoning code updates. 2) That DCD be directed to revise the conservation element of the general plan and pertaining zoning codes relating to oil and gas production. Motion: Victoria Smith. Second: Sarah Foster. Before voting on the motion, the Commission heard public comment. Jon Wilson commented in support of the prohibition of oil drilling in the County. He commented on the proximity of the proposed project to city of Brentwood residents and the health impacts associated. Ken Ervin also shared his concerns against the proposed oil drilling wells and supported the moratorium and prohibition. Smith restated her motion, and moved that the Commission send a letter to the Board of Supervisors requesting it to enact a moratorium on oil and gas drilling while the General Plan and Climate Action Plan is being updated, and consider revisions to the conservation element of the General Plan. The Commission voted unanimously to approve the motion. Motion: Victoria Smith. Second: Sarah Foster 8. RECEIVE Reports from Sustainability Commission members and alternates, and PROVIDE DIRECTION as needed. None. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 8 of 45 9. RECEIVE Report from Sustainability Coordinator. This item was not discussed. 10. RECEIVE Report from Sustainability Commission Chair and IDENTIFY TOPICS for next report to Ad Hoc Committee on Sustainability. This item was not discussed. 11. The next meeting is currently scheduled for August 24, 2020. 12. Adjourn Meeting was adjourned at 7:32 pm. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 9 of 45 Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission 4. Meeting Date: 8/24/2020 Subject: DISCUSS and PROVIDE INPUT to Draft Environmental Justice Policies for General Plan Department: Conservation and Development Presenter: Will Nelson, Department of Conservation and Development Contact: Will Nelson, Department of Conservation and Development Referral History: SB 1000 (2016) requires local governments to identify environmental justice communities (called “disadvantaged communities” in the legislation) in their jurisdictions and address environmental justice in their general plans. The County is in the process of updating its General Plan and is developing environmental justice policies. Referral Update: The attached discussion draft of environmental justice policies provides background and context for this item. County staff and consultants conferred with Sustainability Commission leadership and the environmental justice representatives on the Commission, as well as the Member, District 1, in preparing these draft policies. Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s): DISCUSS and PROVIDE INPUT to Draft Environmental Justice Policies for General Plan Fiscal Impact (if any): N/A. ATTACHMENT(S) Discussion Draft Environmental Justice Policies 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 10 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 1 MEMORANDUM DATE August 17, 2020 TO Contra Costa County staff and Sustainability Commission FROM PlaceWorks SUBJECT Review of Discussion Draft Goals, Policies, and Actions on Environmental Justice for the General Plan Thank you for reviewing this initial discussion draft of goals, policies, and actions to support environmental justice in Contra Costa County. Environmental justice is a new legal requirement for the General Plan, but more importantly it is also one of the topics of greatest concern to County residents. This topic is complex and far-reaching, and the policies and actions we craft will have a direct effect on the lives and health of many people. This initial draft is just the beginning of the conversation. Your additional ideas and input are crucial to improving and strengthening the General Plan. Throughout California, low-income communities and communities of color have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment, with the result that today, they are struggling with both a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts, as well as disproportionate social and economic disadvantages such as poverty or housing instability. SB 1000 was enacted to respond to this inequity by both alleviating pollution and health impacts and compelling cities and counties to include the voices of previously marginalized residents in long-range planning decisions. Legislation Summary SB 1000, the Planning for Healthy Communities Act, passed in 2016, requires that General Plans address environmental justice in disadvantaged communities within the area covered by the General Plan. “Environmental justice” is defined in California law as the fair treatment of people of all races, cultures, and incomes with respect to the development, adoption, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. “Environmental justice” includes, but is not limited to, all of the following: (A) The availability of a healthy environment for all people. (B) The deterrence, reduction, and elimination of pollution burdens for populations and communities experiencing the adverse effects of that pollution, so that the effects of the pollution are not disproportionately borne by those populations and communities. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 11 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 2 (C) Governmental entities engaging and providing technical assistance to populations and communities most impacted by pollution to promote their meaningful participation in all phases of the environmental and land use decision making process. (D) At a minimum, the meaningful consideration of recommendations from populations and communities most impacted by pollution into environmental and land use decisions.1 “Disadvantaged communities” are defined as low-income areas that are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. The attached draft policy guidance uses the term “disadvantaged community” based on this State law definition. However, the term is not supported by everyone, and we will work with County staff to consider alternative terminology, such as environmental justice communities, communities of concern, or frontline communities. Environmental justice goals, policies, and objectives must do the following: ◼ Reduce the unique or compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities by reducing pollution exposure and promoting public improvements, public services, community amenities, food access, safe and sanitary homes, and physical activity. ◼ Promote civil engagement in the public decision-making process. ◼ Prioritize improvements and programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities. SB 1000 defines DACs per Health and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying DACs. Interactive CalEnviroScreen mapping is available online at https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-30. CalEnviroScreen quantifies a range of factors related to the combination of pollution burden and population characteristics (such as poverty, educational attainment, or age) and arrives at a score for every Census tract. In general, the higher the score, the more impacted a community is. Census tracts in the highest quartile of scores (75 to 100) are considered to be disadvantaged communities under SB1000.2 In Contra Costa County, the following communities are identified by CalEnviroScreen as disadvantaged communities: ◼ North Richmond ◼ Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, and Bayview ◼ Rodeo 1 California Government Code 65040.12. 2 Note that this does not refer to the same methodology used to identify “disadvantaged unincorporated communities” under SB 244. Both use median income as one criterion, but SB 244 is focused on safe and adequate infrastructure while SB 1000 is focused on disproportionate impacts of environmental pollution. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 12 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 3 ◼ Crockett ◼ Vine Hill/Mountain View ◼ Bay Point State guidance is clear that identifying these communities should not be merely a GIS exercise. The County has the flexibility to identify additional disadvantaged communities not highlighted by CalEnviroScreen. As part of this policy guidance review, we will also consider refinements to the map of disadvantaged communities based on community input. Community members have suggested the following additions and refinements to the list of disadvantaged communities. We anticipate further discussion with County staff to confirm changes to list. ◼ Add Bethel Island ◼ Add pockets of El Sobrante ◼ Add homeless encampments ◼ Don’t rely on US Census tracts since some communities don’t fall within a cohesive US Census boundary Sources for the Draft Goals, Policies, and Actions PlaceWorks consulted a number of sources to compile the draft goals, policies, and actions, including, but not limited to, the following: ◼ Most importantly, input from the many residents and community advocates who have attended 20+ meetings in disadvantaged communities, countywide meetings, and Sustainability Commission meetings so far. ◼ Environmental Justice Assessment Tool developed by the Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission ◼ General Plan Guidelines prepared by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. ◼ The SB1000 Toolkit prepared by the California Environmental Justice Alliance and PlaceWorks. ◼ Draft and adopted elements from other communities in California. ◼ Comment letters from the Attorney General’s office on the environmental justice components of other County General Plans currently underway. ◼ Policy Suggestions from Environmental Advocates submitted to the County by a consortium of local and regional organizations. ◼ AB 617 Community Emission Reduction Plans (CERPs) 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 13 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 4 Recommendations Under SB 1000, the General Plan Update process must address specific topics in the new/updated goals, policies, and objectives, including the following: ◼ Pollution exposure and air quality. Existing policies could be expanded to target disadvantaged communities, the specific pollutants of concern in those communities, and mitigation approaches for new development that could place sensitive receptors in areas with exposure to pollutants. ◼ Public facilities. The new environmental justice components of the General Plan should ensure that disadvantaged communities have adequate access to public facilities and services, in part by promoting public improvements in those communities. ◼ Food access. The County should include policies to promote projects that would improve access to affordable and nutritious food in disadvantaged communities. ◼ Safe and sanitary homes. The Housing Element works to ensure access to housing, including affordable housing, and includes policies that promote safe and sanitary homes. These policies could be expanded in the General Plan or a future Housing Element update to address the following: • Ensuring that affordable housing projects meet health and safety requirements that are consistent with market-rate housing. • Expanding efforts to repair and rehabilitate substandard housing in disadvantaged communities. • Remediating lead-based paint, mold, mildew, asbestos, and other contaminants. • Enforcing public health-related codes in disadvantaged communities. ◼ Physical activity. The County could expand existing policies in the Open Space Element to target an equitable distribution of physical activity opportunities (i.e., access to parks and open space). This effort could build on projects identified in the County’s Capital Road Improvement Program in addition to specific mobility plans that focus on creating safer and more comfortable streetscapes for pedestrians and bicyclists in disadvantaged communities. ◼ Civic engagement. The County should include new and expanded policies that promote public participation in its planning processes, and which specifically target disadvantaged communities, including through: • Using culturally-appropriate approaches. • Considering the convenience of meeting times/locations for community members. • Using social media and other communication techniques for those without time to attend public meetings. • Providing translation services when needed. • Exploring new pop-up or community-based outreach methods. • Leveraging existing events and meetings to meet people where they already are. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 14 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 5 ◼ Prioritization of improvements and programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities. Policies to prioritize improvements and programs that serve disadvantaged communities should address the following: • Whether improvements/programs meet an important community need. Under-served communities have needs and priorities that may be distinct from those of the public at large. The equity of projects and investments should be assessed based on whether and how well they address these priority needs. • Whether benefits to the local community are significant. • Whether low-income residents are the primary beneficiaries. • Whether improvements/programs avoid substantial burdens, like increasing toxic exposures, causing a net loss of affordable housing, or displacing residents or local businesses. Related Topics Although SB 1000 lists specific topics that must be addressed, the concept of environmental justice can be implemented in many different ways; new policies and programs that improve sustainability, protect community health, and support high-quality jobs (for example) will also advance environmental justice in the county. A successful approach to environmental justice will be ambitious, broad, and holistic. Therefore, the draft policies below are not intended to be the only “environmental justice” policies in the General Plan, but these are a first pass at policies and actions to most directly and specifically respond to the legislative requirements for this topic. In addition to those policy topics explicitly required by SB 1000, related and supportive policies will address: ◼ Climate resilience in disadvantaged communities. ◼ Mixed use development that provides services and jobs near housing. ◼ Preventing displacement and gentrification as disadvantaged neighborhoods are improved and enhanced. ◼ Multimodal transportation that serves residents who don’t drive and offers opportunities for safe physical activity. ◼ Public safety and security, including crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED). ◼ Green building requirements that reduce indoor air pollution and improve health outcomes. ◼ Emergency and community services that are responsive to the needs of residents and businesses in disadvantaged communities. We expect more topics to emerge and be added to this set of draft goals, policies, and actions as they undergo review by County staff, the Sustainability Commission, the Planning Commission, the Board of Supervisors, and, of course, the affected communities. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 15 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 6 Updates to the Climate Action Plan and the Zoning Code will also reflect the General Plan’s commitment to environmental justice. Format and Organization The Board of Supervisors has directed that four themes should be woven throughout the updated General Plan so that they are addressed comprehensively: environmental justice, sustainability, public health, and economic development. The draft policies are listed under the heading of the element in which we think they are most likely to be located. Note that the Housing Element will be prepared separately from the rest of the Elements in order to meet specific State deadlines and statutory requirements. However, SB 1000 requires the County to address safe and sanitary homes. The current Housing Element, adopted in 2014, already includes a number of policies and programs that address safe and sanitary homes. Any new housing-related policies and actions that are developed through this process will be shared with County housing staff to be incorporated into the Housing Element Update, which must be completed by January 2023. Currently, based on our experience in other communities, we anticipate denoting policies that focus on environmental justice with an icon and consolidating these policies in an appendix so they can all be reviewed in one place. This approach worked well for the City of Stockton’s recent General Plan. The attached draft goals, policies, and actions include only countywide guidance. The General Plan will also include a set of community profiles that contain policy guidance specific to each community. Each disadvantaged community, as well as many other communities in the County, will get its own community profile. The policy guidance in each community profile is tailored to the specific issues and needs of each community, as directed by community members through a series of meetings in each community held in 2019 and 2020. In addition, the community profiles for the mapped disadvantaged communities contain important contextual information about the specific sources of pollution, health outcomes, and socioeconomic concerns that contribute to each community’s status as a disadvantaged community. To see the draft community profiles for five of the six mapped disadvantaged communities, please visit the following links. Note that these are still open to further change based on County staff feedback and ongoing dialog with community members. The Vine Hill/Mountain View profile is not yet drafted. ◼ North Richmond Draft Community Profile ◼ Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, and Bayview Draft Community Profile ◼ Rodeo Draft Community Profile ◼ Crockett Draft Community Profile ◼ Bay Point Draft Community Profile 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 16 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 7 A Note on Wording In consultation with ECC2040 Project Manager Will Nelson, we are following these conventions for Goals, Policies, and Actions: ◼ Goal: Describes the general desired result that the County seeks to create through the implementation of its General Plan. Goals are ambitious and inspirational. A Goal can be supported by any number of policies and/or actions. • Most of the goals in the existing General Plan seem to start with “To…” (i.e., the goal is “to” achieve X), but not all. To avoid the redundancy of beginning each goal with “To”, we will strike “to” and just start with what the County is trying to achieve, phrased as a noun. ◼ Policy: Guides decision-making as the County works to achieve a goal. Such policies, once adopted, represent statements of County regulation. A policy is on-going and requires no further implementation. The General Plan’s policies set out the standards that will be used by County staff, the Planning Commission, and Board of Supervisors in their review of land development projects and in decision-making about County actions. Words like require, encourage, promote, allow, etc. indicate policies. A policy does not have to be mandatory. • Many of the existing policies are statements of things that “shall be” done. To reduce the number of words required, we will use an active voice. For example, Policy 3-1 would read “Support and stimulate housing infill…” instead of “Housing infill shall be supported and stimulated…” ◼ Action: A measure, procedure, or technique intended to help to achieve a specified goal. The County must take additional steps to accomplish each action in the General Plan. Words like complete, adopt, amend, prepare, publish, collaborate with, etc. indicate actions. An action is something concrete that can and will be completed and “checked off” (literally or metaphorically). There is not a 1:1 correspondence between policies and actions. Some policies may not require actions to implement; some actions may implement more than one policy. • These are called “implementation measures” in the existing General Plan. Existing implementation measures use the active voice, and we will maintain that approach. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 17 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 8 Environmental Justice Draft Policy Guidance The draft countywide environmental justice goals, policies, and actions are listed below. They were developed based on community input at community meetings and the in-person, virtual, and online collaborations on community health, sustainability, and environmental justice, as well as best practices and guidance from the State. This policy guidance would be incorporated into the elements of the General Plan as indicated by each heading. The policy guidance below is also organized by the following goals: • Goal EJ-A: Equitable distribution of social and economic advantages among all communities in the county so that no community that is disproportionately burdened by environmental pollution or other hazards. • Goal EJ-B: Equitable and convenient access to fresh and healthy foods among all communities in the county so that all residents find it easy to make healthy food choices. • Goal EJ-C: Equitable access to safe and sanitary homes among all communities in the county so that no resident has to live in an unsafe or unhealthy place. • Goal EJ-D: Equitable access to job training, job opportunities, and economic stability among all communities in the county so that all residents can earn a living wage that supports their families and enjoy a broad array of local shopping and services. • Goal EJ-E: Equitable engagement with all communities in the county so that all residents share an equal voice in decisions that affect their community. • Goal EJ-F: Equitable, convenient access to a safe, multi-modal transportation network among all communities in the county so that all residents, regardless of age, ability, race, culture, or economic status, enjoy opportunities to walk, bike, wheel, or take transit to their destinations. • Goal EJ-G: Equitable distribution and quality of public facilities, infrastructure, and services among all communities in the county so that the fundamental needs of all residents are met and all residents can access the services they need. • Goal EJ-H: Equitable and convenient access to health services among all communities in the county so that all residents can find the physical and behavioral health care services they need within their community. • Goal EJ-I: Equitable access to safe recreational activities and parks among all communities in the county so that all residents are empowered to choose an active lifestyle that supports their health. • Goal EJ-J: Equitable and healthy air quality among all communities in the county so that all residents, including those with high sensitivity to unhealthy air, can live in their community without facing disproportionately high risks of respiratory disease and other health problems. • Goal EJ-K: Planning decisions that respect Native American rights and culture. • Goal EJ-L: Communities that are safe and resilient from hazards associated with the use, transport, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste and hazardous substances, including from fossil fuel and chemical refining industries. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 18 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 9 Land Use Element Goal EJ-A Equitable distribution of social and economic advantages among all communities in the county so that no community that is disproportionately burdened by environmental pollution or other hazards. Policies Policy EJ-A.1 Incentivize and streamline public and private investment in new development or redevelopment that promotes community goals in disadvantaged communities, as identified in the community profiles. Policy EJ-A.2 For projects that would significantly impact a disadvantaged community, pursue community benefits agreements that achieve the community goals identified in the community profile. Policy EJ-A.3 Phase out existing fossil fuel and chemical refining industries and transition to just, equitable, and clean industries that offer good-wage jobs. Policy EJ-A.4 Require any proposed project requiring a use permit for a fossil fuel or chemical refining industry or its accessory infrastructure that would impact a disadvantaged community to include early and substantial community engagement as part of the permitting process. As conditions of approval, such projects must include community benefits that support the goals identified by the community in the community profile. Policy EJ-A.5 In order for an application for a major development project (defined as X) to be deemed complete, require applicants to document to the County’s satisfaction how the project will promote environmental justice, including how the project will ensure the following: (a) Its costs and benefits will be shared equitably by all who may be affected; (b) Its economic opportunities will be available to all who wish to take advantage of them, rather than being concentrated to one segment of the population; (c) It will not displace existing residents or businesses in disadvantaged communities; and (d) It will avoid direct, indirect, or unintended negative impacts on the quality of life of residents within disadvantaged communities. Source: EJ Assessment tool developed by Sustainability Commission Policy EJ-A.6 Prioritize clean-up of illegal dumping in disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-A.7 Prioritize County expenditures on infrastructure, landscaping, recreation and open space amenities, and environmental enhancements in disadvantaged communities to respond to the needs identified in the community profiles. Actions Action EJ-A.1 Develop and implement a plan to phase out fossil fuel and chemical refining industries and transition to just, equitable, and clean industries that offer good- wage jobs. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 19 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 10 Action EJ-A.2 Develop criteria for evaluating projects that would potentially impact a disadvantaged community. For projects that would adversely impact a disadvantaged community, establish required project approval findings to ensure that community benefit agreements or other mitigation efforts would achieve the community goals identified in the community profile. Action EJ-A.3 Develop a healthy development checklist that establishes criteria to evaluate how new development supports the County’s health goals and the health-related community goals identified in each community profile. Action EJ-A.4 Work with the Contra Costa County Health Services Department to monitor health outcomes data for disadvantaged communities every five years in order to determine the effectiveness of the County’s environmental justice policies. During this review, assess any updated information related to the delineation of disadvantaged communities in Contra Costa County. Based on these reviews, update the map of disadvantaged communities and environmental justice-related goals, policies, and actions accordingly. Action EJ-A.5 Explore the feasibility of creating, participating in, or attracting a public bank. Action EJ-A.6 Develop and sufficiently fund a program to assist project applicants in disadvantaged communities in navigating the project application and review process. Action EJ-A.7 Improve code enforcement and public works maintenance practices to keep disadvantaged communities hazard free, safe, and clean, emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified by the community in its community profile. Action EJ-A.8 Consider options and develop an ordinance to restrict new bars and liquor stores in areas where there are high concentrations of similar establishments. To inform the development of this ordinance, create a map that identifies the locations of current establishments of these types, and regularly maintain it so that it continues to aid in decision-making about such uses. Action EJ-A.9 Encourage community events, such as block parties, that support social connections, neighborhood identity, and behavioral health. Action EJ-A.10 Partner with community organizations and franchise garbage haulers to host additional community clean-up days in disadvantaged communities. Action EJ-A.11 Work with internet providers to improve access to reliable, fast internet access in disadvantaged communities at affordable prices. Action EJ-A.12 Review needs and services in each disadvantaged community as part of the annual budgeting process. Goal EJ-B Equitable and convenient access to fresh and healthy foods among all communities in the county so that all residents find it easy to make healthy food choices. Policies Policy EJ-B.1 Increase access to fresh food in disadvantaged communities by allowing and encouraging local food production, micro agriculture, rooftop gardens, community gardens, urban farms, and farmers’ markets on vacant or 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 20 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 11 underutilized lands, and by distributing information about community-supported agriculture programs that provide affordable access to fresh food. Policy EJ-B.2 Require new or substantially renovated County facilities that interface with the public and that are located in disadvantaged communities to incorporate facilities and amenities that improve the public’s access to healthy food options. Policy EJ-B.3 Support transportation routes that link low-income communities and communities of color to grocery stores and other sources of healthy food. In addition, maximize multimodal access to fresh food by encouraging grocery stores, healthy corner stores, and outdoor markets at key transit nodes and within transit-oriented developments. Policy EJ-B.4 Provide access to public land, cleanup, and other County services for farmers’ markets in disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-B.5 Encourage farmers and neighborhood community gardens to participate in local farmers’ markets. Actions Action EJ-B.1 Prepare a healthy food ordinance that creates incentives and guidelines that support access to healthy food through land use controls, such as streamlined permitting of grocery stores. When developing this ordinance, work with Contra Costa County Health Services to collect geographic data about current health conditions. Action EJ-B.2 Implement a County Nutrition Action Plan (CNAP) to promote the 2010 Dietary Guidelines, federal and State food security programs, and physical activity. Action EJ-B.3 Develop guidelines to support implementation of micro agriculture, rooftop gardens, community gardens, urban farms, and farmers’ markets. Action EJ-B.4 Educate local farmers about opportunities for participation in local farmers’ markets to bring locally grown food to disadvantaged communities. In addition, encourage farmers’ markets to reduce vendor restrictions or entry fees for local farmers to incentivize local participation. Action EJ-B.5 Conduct nutrition workshops, health events and social marketing for low income residents to promote healthy eating and active living. (from https://cchealth.org/nutrition/) Action EJ-B.6 Coordinate school and after-school programs as well as peer to peer education to empower families and youth to choose healthy foods, drink water instead of sweetened drinks and live an active life. This could include educational field trips to local farms, community gardens, and outdoor recreation areas. (from https://cchealth.org/nutrition/) Action EJ-B.7 Participate in local coalitions and subcontract with community partners to collaborate with government agencies, child care centers, faith-based organizations, community leaders, food retailers, other businesses and schools to support programs and policies that mitigate child obesity and improve access and intake of healthy foods and physical activity. (from https://cchealth.org/nutrition/) 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 21 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 12 Action EJ-B.8 Encourage worksite wellness through access to healthier food choices in vending machines and promotion of physical activity. (from https://cchealth.org/nutrition/) Action EJ-B.9 Collect data for grant funding, program planning and evaluation of interventions to improve access and consumption of healthy food and physical activity. (from https://cchealth.org/nutrition/) Goal EJ-C Equitable access to safe and sanitary homes among all communities in the county so that no resident has to live in an unsafe or unhealthy place. Policies Policy EJ-C.1 Ensure that future improvements in disadvantaged communities will not produce a net loss of affordable housing or the displacement of residents. Policy EJ-C.2 Ensure adequate living conditions for tenants through ongoing and effective code enforcement, with priority given to rental properties in disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-C.3 Coordinate with the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, and other organizations to transition vacant, unentitled land in disadvantaged communities into affordable housing, which could include many types of innovative housing products. Actions Action EJ-C.1 Develop and implement a rent control and just cause for eviction ordinance to strengthen the protections provided by AB 1482 and provide accessible resources for fair tenant protections in disadvantaged communities. Action EJ-C.2 Conduct periodic outreach in disadvantaged communities to inform tenants of their rights and responsibilities. Written outreach efforts should be translated into appropriate languages. Action EJ-C.3 Update the County Code to ensure county residents have secure housing when the County and/or State declare states of emergency due to natural or human- made disasters, including epidemics and pandemics. Action EJ-C.4 Address barriers to and increase participation in the County’s weatherization program for extremely low, very low, and low-income homeowners and renters, as well as in other programs like the Green and Healthy Homes Initiative, to provide resources for minor home repairs and energy improvements and to improve health and quality of life. Action EJ-C.5 Create a bulk buying program that allows people to purchase air conditioners, heaters, and other electric appliances at wholesale prices to increase energy efficiency and replace hazardous appliances. Work with volunteer groups to help people install air conditioners and other electrical appliances if they are unable to do so themselves, focusing on disadvantaged communities and other areas with high levels of vulnerable people. Consider augmenting energy efficiency 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 22 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 13 programs to reduce electricity use and help offset the cost of operating electrical appliances. Action EJ-C.6 Partner with a local solar company to enact a solar group buy program to purchase solar panels and battery storage in bulk for installation in disadvantaged communities. The program should include an educational component to teach the community about the benefits and process of solar installation and give them the opportunity to sign up for the program at a discounted rate. Action EJ-C.7 Obtain funding for and implement assistance programs for homeowners and landlords to bring older properties up to Code and improve their livability, with priority given to homes in disadvantaged communities, and in particular rental housing and high-density housing. Action EJ-C.8 In collaboration with nonprofit and for-profit developers, obtain funding for and establish community land trusts serving each disadvantaged community that will support long-term community ownership and housing affordability. Action EJ-C.9 Expand the County’s first-time homebuyer program to provide more education and assistance, prioritizing outreach and marketing in disadvantaged communities to spread awareness of the program. Action EJ-C.10 In coordination with Contra Costa Health Services, create an inventory of available land for tiny homes or other types of innovative housing products as alternatives to accommodate people who lack housing. Action EJ-C.11 Collaborate with Contra Costa Health Services and the Contra Costa Council on Homelessness to develop and implement a plan to provide transition facilities and services for people facing homelessness. Link homeless programs with supportive services such as behavioral health, substance abuse, and primary health care. Action EJ-C.12 Conduct periodic outreach to absentee owners of properties in disadvantaged communities to inform owners of their legal obligations to maintain rental properties in safe and habitable condition. Keep tenants informed of these efforts, including by translating the information into languages other than English. Action EJ-C.13 Continue to support the Contra Costa Lead Poisoning Prevention Project’s programs, including services for children, public health nurse case management, home environmental investigation, education and outreach, and information and referrals for parents, home remodelers and child care providers. (from https://cchealth.org/lead-poison/) Goal EJ-D Equitable access to job training, job opportunities, and economic stability among all communities in the county so that all residents can earn a living wage that supports their families and enjoy a broad array of local shopping and services. Policies Policy EJ-D.1 Actively work across County departments and agencies to attract businesses that provide desired goods and services in disadvantaged communities, including food stores with fresh produce, health care, childcare, pharmacies, and other retailers. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 23 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 14 Balance community desires with comprehensive assessments of market demand to guide business attraction efforts. Policy EJ-D.2 Actively work across County departments and agencies to attract manufacturing businesses in the clean technology sector, especially those that will not increase emissions in or near disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-D.3 Promote locally owned businesses and enterprises in disadvantaged communities to support economic self-sufficiency and stability, and ensure that future improvements will not result in the loss of these businesses. Policy EJ-D.4 Partner with community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training skills centers to support enhanced job-skills training, workforce housing, and recruitment programs and services in disadvantaged communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency. Training programs should also support a just transition toward a sustainable economy by re-training fossil fuel-based workers with skills for green industrial jobs. Actions Action EJ-D.1 Establish a First Source Hiring Program requiring applicant of entitlements to make best efforts to hire employees, workers, and subcontractor components of the project from the local area. Action EJ-D.2 Explore strategies to establish a revolving loan fund to support small businesses in disadvantaged communities. Goal EJ-E Equitable engagement with all communities in the county so that all residents share an equal voice in decisions that affect their community. Policies Policy EJ-E.1 Notify the community through the County website and coordination with community organizations and leaders when County planning decisions are being considered in or adjacent to disadvantaged communities. Conduct outreach and engagement with disadvantaged communities as follows: • Prepare public notices and other materials in the predominant language(s) spoken in the community and provide interpretation services at meetings as needed. • Make public notices and other important documents available in print at local libraries, community centers, or other gathering places. • Use culturally appropriate approaches. • Schedule and locate meetings to be convenient for community members. • Use social media and other communication techniques for those without time to attend public meetings. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 24 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 15 • Consider data that reflects the economic, gender, age, and racial diversity of the affected population. [Source: EJ Assessment tool from Sustainability Commission] • Clearly explain potential adverse impacts of a proposed project in plain language that is easily understood by the target community. Policy EJ-E.2 Support community-driven or community-led initiatives in disadvantaged communities that work toward the goals identified in the community profiles. Support could include technical assistance and providing staff resources and meeting spaces, among other methods. Actions Action EJ-E.1 In coordination with leaders and stakeholders from disadvantaged communities, prepare a community engagement toolkit that identifies outreach and engagement activities based on the project type and stakeholders involved in order to build community participation and ensure all voices are represented. Action EJ-E.2 Establish an ongoing environmental justice advisory group comprised of community members from disadvantaged communities to advise and assist the County in addressing disproportionate health, safety, and welfare in disadvantaged communities, or incorporate these goals into the mission of an existing advisory group. Action EJ-E.3 Identify, initiate, formalize, and fund partnerships with community organizations and leaders in disadvantaged communities to ensure that local residents can make significant contributions to planning decisions. Action EJ-E.4 Partner with the County Administrator's Office and other relevant departments to identify communities with a significant number of non-English speaking households, and develop resources and strategies to better reach them. Action EJ-E.5 As part of the General Plan annual progress report to the Board of Supervisors, describe the County’s efforts to meet the needs of each disadvantaged community. The report should specifically summarize the extent to which the County has implemented the policies and actions identified in each disadvantaged community profile. Action EJ-E.6 Hold at least one public meeting per year in each disadvantaged community, including representatives from the full spectrum of County Departments, to hear from residents of these communities. Provide translation and childcare services at these meetings. Transportation and Circulation Element Goal EJ-F Equitable, convenient access to a safe, multi-modal transportation network among all communities in the county so that all residents, regardless of age, ability, race, culture, or economic status, enjoy opportunities to walk, bike, wheel, or take transit to their destinations. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 25 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 16 Policies Policy EJ-F.1 Support improvements to transit, bikeways, and sidewalks in disadvantaged communities to make active transportation more accessible and user-friendly while decreasing vehicle speeds, congestion, and air pollution. Prioritize infrastructure projects identified in disadvantaged community profiles. Policy EJ-F.2 Prioritize street lighting programs in disadvantaged communities, particularly at parks and transit stops, along commercial corridors, near high density housing, and in high crime neighborhoods, with a focus on energy-efficient, pedestrian- scale lighting. Policy EJ-F.3 Prioritize transit shelters and seating improvements for disadvantaged communities, especially along commercial corridors and near high density housing. Policy EJ-F.4 Support local transit providers in establishing and maintaining routes and services that provide disadvantaged communities with convenient access to employment centers, with extended hours to serve shift workers, as well as to shopping and services. Policy EJ-F.5 Support development of small-scale neighborhood nodes that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail, public amenities, and services to residents of disadvantaged communities within walking distance of their homes. Policy EJ-F.6 Work with school districts and neighborhood groups to ensure that safe walking, bicycling, and transit routes to school exist, prioritizing the development and maintenance of sidewalks, crosswalks, street lighting, bicycling infrastructure, transit stop amenities, automotive speed controls, and other safety improvements in disadvantaged communities, including in residential areas and near schools, libraries, and recreational facilities. Actions Action EJ-F.1 Expand the hours of operation, operational boundaries, convenience, and quality of accessible transit services to improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable communities through support to transit districts or other initiatives. Action EJ-F.2 If requested by residents, facilitate partial and/or temporary street closures for amenities such as parklets and community events such as farmers’ markets, block parties, or bicycle and pedestrian events. Action EJ-F.3 Establish and enforce local truck routes in unincorporated areas to direct truck traffic to freeways while minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors in disadvantaged communities. Housing Element As noted in the introduction above, the Housing Element will be updated through a separate and parallel process. Any relevant policies developed to address safe and sanitary homes or other topics will be folded into the Housing Element through that process. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 26 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 17 Relevant policies in the current adopted Housing Element include: GOAL 1 Maintain and improve the quality of the existing housing stock and residential neighborhoods in Contra Costa County. Policy 1.1 Assist low-income homeowners in maintaining and improving residential properties through housing rehabilitation and energy efficiency assistance programs. Policy 1.2 Focus rehabilitation assistance and code enforcement efforts in communities with a high concentration of older and/or substandard residential structures. Policy 1.3 Assist affordable housing providers in the acquisition and rehabilitation of older residential structures, and maintain them as long-term affordable housing. Policy 1.4 Promote increased awareness among property owners and residents of the importance of property maintenance to neighborhood quality. GOAL 8 Promote equal opportunity for all residents to reside in the housing of their choice. Policy 8.1 Prohibit discrimination in the sale or rental of housing to anyone on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status or other such arbitrary factors. Policy 8.2 Provide financial support to non-profit organizations providing fair housing services. Policy 8.3 Enhance the opportunity for seniors, persons with disabilities, large households, single parents, persons with HIV/AIDS, persons with mental illness, and farmworkers to have access to housing of their choice. Housing Programs: Rehabilitation Loans: Disseminate information on housing rehabilitation assistance through the County website, public access cable channels, notices in the press, presentations and distribution of brochures to public service agencies and community groups, and mailings to County residents. Code Enforcement: Continue to carry out code enforcement activities (rental inspection program) as a means to maintain the quality of the housing stock and residential neighborhoods. Acquisition/Rehabilitation: Disseminate information on housing rehabilitation assistance on the Department webpage, presentations and distribution of brochures to apartment owners and property management associations. First-Time Homebuyer Opportunities: Continue to expand homeownership opportunities through a combination of homebuyer assistance programs, financial support of new construction, and development agreements. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 27 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 18 Residential Sites Inventory: Maintain an up-to-date inventory of vacant/underutilized residential sites as funding permits and make inventory available to potential developers (both for profit and non-profit developers) Public Facilities and Services Element Goal EJ-G Equitable distribution and quality of public facilities, infrastructure, and services among all communities in the county so that the fundamental needs of all residents are met and all residents can access the services they need. Policies Policy EJ-G.1 In cooperation with responsible County departments, systematically prioritize investments in public facilities, infrastructure, and services that benefit disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-G.2 Assist disadvantaged communities in establishing funding and financing mechanisms – both community-generated mechanisms like building improvement districts and County-initiated mechanisms like landscape and lighting improvement districts – to provide community-desired public facilities and services. Policy EJ-G.3 Coordinate County efforts with the planning efforts of various service providers to ensure efficient and effective service delivery in disadvantaged communities. Actions Action EJ-G.1 Identify, secure funding for, and implement green infrastructure projects in disadvantaged communities that support the community goals identified in the community profiles. Action EJ-G.2 Explore options for the County to provide seed grants, micro loans, or similar funding to community-based organizations or public-private partners to support green infrastructure or other related improvements in disadvantaged communities. Action EJ-G.3 Compile, maintain, and make easily available a list of numbers to call for basic needs such as code enforcement, housing assistance, food assistance, and healthcare. Provide this information in multiple languages. Action EJ-G.4 Establish a task force of County department heads or their immediate deputies and other stakeholders (e.g., cities, local environmental justice organizations, and other service providers) to coordinate efforts, provide oversight, and otherwise ensure that public services and facilities in disadvantaged communities are prioritized and efficiently and effectively delivered. Goal EJ-H Equitable and convenient access to health services among all communities in the county so that all residents can find the physical and behavioral health care services they need within their community. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 28 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 19 Policies Policy EJ-H.1 Work with Contra Costa Health Services and community-based organizations to expand community health-related outreach, analysis, and implementation efforts in disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-H.2 Collaborate with non-profit partners and Contra Costa Health Services to attract medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in areas that lack access to health care, prioritizing disadvantaged communities. Actions Action EJ-H.1 Minimize zoning requirements for medical facilities to reduce barriers to development. Goal EJ-I Equitable access to safe recreational activities and parks among all communities in the county so that all residents are empowered to choose an active lifestyle that supports their health. Policies Policy EJ-I.1 Assist with coordination to support joint use recreation facilities serving disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-I.2 Increase access to diverse, high-quality parks, green space, recreational facilities, and natural environments for disadvantaged communities. Design and maintain these facilities to offer a safe and comfortable environment for residents of all ages and abilities. Policy EJ-I.3 Require major new development projects (defined as X) in disadvantaged communities to provide new park and recreation amenities within the community, rather than contribute to a fund that could support facilities outside the community. Policy EJ-I.4 Require new or substantially renovated County recreational facilities located in disadvantaged communities to incorporate facilities, amenities, and public spaces that create opportunities for physical activity and social interaction. Policy EJ-I.5 Work with other agencies to convert public easements, such as utility corridors or unused rights-of-way, into parks and trails. Policy EJ-I.6 Support local community groups and volunteer organizations in efforts to improve or maintain local parks, trails, and other public spaces in disadvantaged communities. Actions Action EJ-I.1 Coordinate with park districts and other County departments to prepare a parks and open space needs assessment for each disadvantaged community. Based on the results of the assessment for each community, implement improvements that address barriers to outdoor physical activity, such as inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 29 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 20 Conservation Element Goal EJ-J Equitable and healthy air quality among all communities in the county so that all residents, including those with high sensitivity to unhealthy air, can live in their community without facing disproportionately high risks of respiratory disease and other health problems. Policies Policy EJ-J.1 Require a cumulative health risk assessment, including consideration of truck traffic impacts, when a project potentially affects sensitive receptors in disadvantaged communities, and require appropriate mitigation based on the findings of the assessment. Policy EJ-J.2 When evaluating health risk impacts of projects in disadvantaged communities, use a cancer risk of 1.0 per million as the threshold for a significant impact. Policy EJ-J.3 Require new development to site sensitive receptors such as homes, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, childcare centers, senior centers, and long-term health care facilities as far away as possible from significant pollution sources. Policy EJ-J.4 When evaluating air quality impacts of projects in disadvantaged communities, use thresholds of significance that match or are more stringent than the air quality thresholds of significance identified in the current Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Air Quality Guidelines. Policy EJ-J.5 Consider future General Plan and/or Zoning Code amendments as needed to support BAAQMD in meeting AB 617 objectives to reduce the health impacts of air pollution in Communities of Concern. Policy EJ-J.6 Require mitigation measures that go beyond current California Building Code requirements to ensure healthy indoor air quality and noise levels in the development of new sensitive land uses close to sources of pollution, while also promoting energy independence; such measures may include landscaping, ventilation systems, multi-paned windows, setbacks, barriers, and air filters. Policy EJ-J.7 Prioritize new street tree plantings and increase the tree canopy in disadvantaged communities, in particular areas with a high heat index. Policy EJ-J.8 Require warehouse and distribution facilities to provide adequate on-site truck parking to prevent idling, and require refrigerated warehouses to provide generators for refrigerated trucks. Policy EJ-J.9 Prohibit fossil fuel powered truck, construction vehicle, and transit vehicle idling within 100 feet of sensitive receptors such as homes, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, childcare centers, senior centers, and long-term health care facilities. Actions Action EJ-J.1 Coordinate with State and regional regulatory entities and community members to monitor pollution exposure and identify and implement solutions in disadvantaged communities. Action EJ-J.2 Assist BAAQMD in establishing and implementing Community Air Monitoring Plans for disadvantaged communities. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 30 of 45 August 17, 2020 | Page 21 Action EJ-J.3 Coordinate with BAAQMD to create a targeted permit inspection program in disadvantaged communities to help ensure enforcement of air quality permits. Action EJ-J.4 Enforce the State’s five-minute maximum idling law. Action EJ-J.5 Prepare an urban forest master plan for the county, prioritizing disadvantaged communities. Open Space Element Goal EJ-K Planning decisions that respect Native American rights and culture. Policies Policy EJ-K.1 Work with local Native American tribes to protect recorded and unrecorded cultural and sacred sites and to educate developers and the community at large about the connections between Native American culture and the environmental features of the local landscape. Safety Element Goal EJ-L Communities that are safe and resilient from hazards associated with the use, transport, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste and hazardous substances, including from fossil fuel and chemical refining industries. Policies Policy EJ-L.1 Prohibit the construction of new large-scale hazardous waste facilities in or adjacent to disadvantaged communities. Policy EJ-L.2 Advocate for and coordinate with local and regional agencies in efforts to remediate or treat contaminated surface water, groundwater, or soils in or affecting disadvantaged communities. Actions Action EJ-L.1 Obtain grant funding and establish partnerships with local environmental justice organizations to implement the County’s Brownfields and Contaminated Sites Cleanup Policy in disadvantaged communities. Action EJ-L.2 Establish a comprehensive, long term strategy that coordinates efforts from all regulatory agencies to mitigate impacts from industrial facilities on adjacent communities, both acute and long-term, with priority given to developing strategies for disadvantaged communities. The strategies must include specific mitigations to address air pollution, pipeline risks, and accidents, including identification of and community education about evacuation routes. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 31 of 45 Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission 5. Meeting Date: 8/24/2020 Subject: RECEIVE reports from Sustainability Commission members and alternates, and PROVIDE DIRECTION as needed Department: Conservation & Development Presenter: Jody London, DCD Contact: Jody London (925) 674-7871 Referral History: This is a standing item of the Commission. Referral Update: Commission members and alternates will provide updates to the full Commission. Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s): RECEIVE reports from Sustainability Commission members and alternates, and PROVIDE DIRECTION as needed. Fiscal Impact (if any): None. ATTACHMENT(S) No file(s) attached. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 32 of 45 Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission 6. Meeting Date: 8/24/2020 Subject: RECEIVE Report from Sustainability Coordinator Department: Conservation & Development Presenter: Jody London, Sustainability Coordinator Contact: Jody London, DCD Referral History: This is a standing item of the Commission. Referral Update: Key activities since the Commission’s last meeting on June 22, 2020 are listed below. •Sustainability staff presented the draft climate emergency resolution to the Board of Supervisors Sustainability Committee on July 27, with a report on the recommendations from the Sustainability Commission. Over 40 community members attended the meeting, which was held online (a recording of the meeting can be found on the Sustainability Committee web page). The Sustainability Committee provided direction to staff regarding revisions to the draft resolution, and directed that it be brought to the Board of Supervisors. This is expected to happen on September 22. Please note that in recent weeks, both the Marathon refinery in Martinez and the Phillips 66 refinery in Rodeo have announced they will no longer refine crude oil and are looking to use those facilities for clean energy. See attached articles. •Sustainability staff have been supporting the General Plan team in developing the draft environmental justice policies for the General Plan. Staff also have been helping facilitate General Plan meetings in communities in unincorporated areas of the County. •Sustainability staff are preparing a proposal to the California Department of Conservation for a planning grant to develop a carbon sequestration feasibility study for Contra Costa County. Staff have been meeting with many potential stakeholders to the project regarding project goals and structure and to solicit letters of support. The proposal is due August 28. •Staff completed the County’s contract for the next three years with the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN), in which Contra Costa County plays a leadership role. BayREN will be hosting multiple homeowner energy efficiency Zoom workshops throughout the next several months. The first workshop occurred on August 18th with over 115 registrations. •Facilitated the shut down of the East Bay Energy Watch (EBEW), which will no longer be funded by PG&E after June 30, 2020. •The County was awarded a $527,558 grant for a three-year period to the Sierra Health Foundation for Contra Costa Health Services in coordination with the Contra Costa Health Plan to provide asthma home visiting services to support the implementation of the County’s Asthma Initiative Project through 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 33 of 45 the County’s Green and Health Homes Initiative (GHHI). This will allow the County to pilot strategies and systems to link health care with energy efficiency upgrades for low-income residents. •Public Works energy staff are overseeing the installation of rooftop solar at 10 County facilities. Three of those sites will include battery storage. •The fluorescent to LED lighting retrofit at 30 Douglas, the County’s information technology headquarters, is nearing completion on-time and within budget. •Sustainability staff are assisting Supervisor John Gioia in planning Clean Air Day in the Bay Area, which will occur on October 7, 2020. See https://www.cleanairday.org/. •Hosted an online meeting of the Sustainability Exchange on July 1 for local government staff in Contra Costa County. Over 40 people participated and learned about microgrids, from concept to reality. •Continued to administer the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. •Participated in professional learning opportunities regarding environmental justice, communication strategies, race and equity, and related. •Interviewed Climate Corps fellows for 2020-2021. Cindy Cortez’s fellowship ended August 15. We greatly appreciate her service! We will welcome Nicole Shimizu in September. •Collaborated with County staff working on topics including land use and transportation, hazardous materials, green business program, the County’s state and federal legislative platforms, economic development, health, codes, solid waste, energy, and related. •Participated in regional activities. Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s): RECEIVE report from Sustainability Coordinator. Fiscal Impact (if any): None. ATTACHMENT(S) Articles re Oil Refineries 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 34 of 45 8/18/2020 Europe’s Big Oil Companies Are Turning Electric - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/17/business/energy-environment/oil-companies-europe-electric.html?referringSource=articleShare 1/3 https://nyti.ms/31XxWmV Europeʼs Big Oil Companies Are Turning Electric Under pressure from governments and investors, industry leaders like BP and Shell are accelerating their production of cleaner energy. By Stanley Reed Aug. 17, 2020 This may turn out to be the year that oil giants, especially in Europe, started looking more like electric companies. Late last month, Royal Dutch Shell won a deal to build a vast wind farm off the coast of the Netherlands. Earlier in the year, France’s Total, which owns a battery maker, agreed to make several large investments in solar power in Spain and a wind farm off Scotland. Total also bought an electric and natural gas utility in Spain and is joining Shell and BP in expanding its electric vehicle charging business. At the same time, the companies are ditching plans to drill more wells as they chop back capital budgets. Shell recently said it would delay new fields in the Gulf of Mexico and in the North Sea, while BP has promised not to hunt for oil in any new countries. Prodded by governments and investors to address climate change concerns about their products, Europe’s oil companies are accelerating their production of cleaner energy — usually electricity, sometimes hydrogen — and promoting natural gas, which they argue can be a cleaner transition fuel from coal and oil to renewables. For some executives, the sudden plunge in demand for oil caused by the pandemic — and the accompanying collapse in earnings — is another warning that unless they change the composition of their businesses, they risk being dinosaurs headed for extinction. This evolving vision is more striking because it is shared by many longtime veterans of the oil business. “During the last six years, we had extreme volatility in the oil commodities,” said Claudio Descalzi, 65, the chief executive of Eni, who has been with that Italian company for nearly 40 years. He said he wanted to build a business increasingly based on green energy rather than oil. “We want to stay away from the volatility and the uncertainty,” he added. Bernard Looney, a 29-year BP veteran who became chief executive in February, recently told journalists, “What the world wants from energy is changing, and so we need to change, quite frankly, what we offer the world.” The bet is that electricity will be the prime means of delivering cleaner energy in the future and, therefore, will grow rapidly. American giants like Exxon Mobil and Chevron have been slower than their European counterparts to commit to climate-related goals that are as far reaching, analysts say, partly because they face less government and investor pressure (although the American financial community is increasingly vocal of late). “We are seeing a much bigger differentiation in corporate strategy” separating American and European oil companies “than at any point in my career,” said Jason Gammel, a veteran oil analyst at Jefferies, an investment bank. A floating solar installation in Britain, a project of BP’s joint venture with Lightsource.Reuters 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 35 of 45 8/18/2020 Europe’s Big Oil Companies Are Turning Electric - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/17/business/energy-environment/oil-companies-europe-electric.html?referringSource=articleShare 2/3 Companies like Shell and BP are trying to position themselves for an era when they will rely much less on extracting natural resources from the earth than on providing energy as a service tailored to the needs of customers — more akin to electric utilities than to oil drillers. They hope to take advantage of the thousands of engineers on their payrolls to manage the construction of new types of energy plants; their vast networks of retail stations to provide services like charging electric vehicles; and their trading desks, which typically buy and hedge a wide variety of energy futures, to arrange low-carbon energy supplies for cities or large companies. All of Europe’s large oil companies have now set targets to reduce the carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. Most have set a ”net zero” ambition by 2050, a goal also embraced by governments like the European Union and Britain. The companies plan to get there by selling more and more renewable energy and, in some cases, by offsetting emissions with so-called nature-based solutions like planting forests to soak up carbon. Electricity is the key to most of these strategies. Hydrogen, a clean-burning gas that can store energy and generate electric power for vehicles, also plays an increasingly large role. The coming changes are clearest at BP. Mr. Looney said this month that he planned to increase investment in low-emission businesses like renewable energy by tenfold in the next decade to $5 billion a year, while cutting back oil and gas production by 40 percent. By 2030, BP aims to generate renewable electricity comparable to a few dozen large offshore wind farms. Mr. Looney, though, has said oil and gas production need to be retained to generate cash to finance the company’s future. Environmentalists and analysts described Mr. Looney’s statement that BP’s oil and gas production would decline in the future as a breakthrough that would put pressure on other companies to follow. BP’s move “clearly differentiates them from peers,” said Andrew Grant, an analyst at Carbon Tracker, a London nonprofit. He noted that most other oil companies had so far been unwilling to confront “the prospect of producing less fossil fuels.” While there is skepticism in both the environmental and the investment communities about whether century-old companies like BP and Shell can learn new tricks, they do bring scale and know-how to the task. “To make a switch from a global economy that depends on fossil fuels for 80 percent of its energy to something else is a very, very big job,” said Daniel Yergin, the energy historian who has a forthcoming book, “The New Map,” on the transition now occurring in energy. But he noted, “These companies are really good at big, complex engineering management that will be required for a transition of that scale.” Financial analysts say the dreadnoughts are already changing course. “They are doing it because management believes it is the right thing to do and also because shareholders are severely pressuring them,” said Michele Della Vigna, head of natural resources research at Goldman Sachs. Already, he said, investments by the large oil companies in low-carbon energy have risen to as much as 15 percent of capital spending, on average, for 2020 and 2021 and around 50 percent if natural gas is included. Oswald Clint, an analyst at Bernstein, forecast that the large oil companies would expand their renewable-energy businesses like wind, solar and hydrogen by around 25 percent or more each year over the next decade. “We want to stay away from the volatility and the uncertainty,” said Claudio Descalzi, Eni’s chief executive, shown in 2016.Nadia Shira Cohen for The New York Times 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 36 of 45 8/18/2020 Europe’s Big Oil Companies Are Turning Electric - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/17/business/energy-environment/oil-companies-europe-electric.html?referringSource=articleShare 3/3 Shares in oil companies, once stock market stalwarts, have been marked down by investors in part because of the risk that climate change concerns will erode demand for their products. European electric companies are perceived as having done more than the oil industry to embrace the new energy era. “It is very tricky for an investor to have confidence that they can pull this off,” Mr. Clint said, referring to the oil industry’s aspirations to change. But, he said, he expects funds to flow back into oil stocks as the new businesses gather momentum. At times, supplying electricity has been less profitable than drilling for oil and gas. Executives, though, figure that wind farms and solar parks are likely to produce more predictable revenue, partly because customers want to buy products labeled green. Mr. Descalzi of Eni said converted refineries in Venice and Sicily that the company uses to make lower-carbon fuel from plant matter have produced better financial results in this difficult year than its traditional businesses. Oil companies insist that they must continue with some oil and gas investments, not least because those earnings can finance future energy sources. “Not to make any mistake,” Patrick Pouyanné, chief executive of Total, said to analysts recently: Low-cost oil projects will be a part of the future. During the pandemic, BP, Total and Shell have all scrutinized their portfolios, partly to determine if climate change pressures and lingering effects from the pandemic mean that petroleum reserves on their books — developed for perhaps billions of dollars, when oil was at the center of their business — might never be produced or earn less than previously expected. These exercises have led to tens of billions of dollars of write-offs for the second quarter, and there are likely to be more as companies recalibrate their plans. “We haven’t seen the last of these,” said Luke Parker, vice president for corporate analysis at Wood Mackenzie, a market research firm. “There will be more to come as the realities of the energy transition bite.” Royal Dutch Shell is getting into the electric-car charging business. Mary Turner/Reuters 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 37 of 45 8/18/2020 With Martinez Marathon refinery closing, leaders look ahead https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/08/08/marathon-refinery-closure-could-signal-big-transition-for-area-refineries/1/5 NewsNewsEnvironment & ScienceEnvironment & Science Marathon refinery closure couldMarathon refinery closure could signal big transition for Bay Areasignal big transition for Bay Area refineriesrefineries The coronavirus’ impact on the volatile oil industryThe coronavirus’ impact on the volatile oil industry has prompted renewed focus on a local shift fromhas prompted renewed focus on a local shift from oil refineriesoil refineries MARTINEZ, CA – APRIL 27: View of the Martinez Renery in Martinez,MARTINEZ, CA – APRIL 27: View of the Martinez Renery in Martinez, Calif., on Monday, April 27, 2020. The Marathon Petroleum CompanyCalif., on Monday, April 27, 2020. The Marathon Petroleum Company plans to temporarily stop producing at its renery because ofplans to temporarily stop producing at its renery because of decreased demand for gasoline caused by the coronavirus outbreak.decreased demand for gasoline caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Work to wind down production at the renery began Sunday, saidWork to wind down production at the renery began Sunday, said renery spokeswoman Patty Deutsche, and will be complete byrenery spokeswoman Patty Deutsche, and will be complete by Monday, April 27. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)Monday, April 27. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group) By By ANNIE SCIACCAANNIE SCIACCA | | asciacca@bayareanewsgroup.comasciacca@bayareanewsgroup.com | Bay Area News Group | Bay Area News Group PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 8, 2020 at 7:00 a.m.August 8, 2020 at 7:00 a.m. | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 9, 2020 at 1:22 p.m.August 9, 2020 at 1:22 p.m.08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 38 of 45 8/18/2020 With Martinez Marathon refinery closing, leaders look ahead https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/08/08/marathon-refinery-closure-could-signal-big-transition-for-area-refineries/2/5 MARTINEZ — The recent announcement that MARTINEZ — The recent announcement that Marathon Petroleum will close itsMarathon Petroleum will close its Martinez plantMartinez plant has cast a spotlight on the handful of reneries that have dened has cast a spotlight on the handful of reneries that have dened the region for decades but today are besieged by the double-whammy of athe region for decades but today are besieged by the double-whammy of a coronavirus pandemic and a growing chorus for a “just transition” to renewablecoronavirus pandemic and a growing chorus for a “just transition” to renewable resources.resources. At stake is cleaner air as well as the jobs of thousands of people and theAt stake is cleaner air as well as the jobs of thousands of people and the contributions they and their employers make to the local economy.contributions they and their employers make to the local economy. For years now, experts say, it hasn’t been a question of whether a transition wasFor years now, experts say, it hasn’t been a question of whether a transition was going to happen but when, and the steep decline in auto use resulting fromgoing to happen but when, and the steep decline in auto use resulting from stay-at-home orders has accelerated the timetable for that discussion.stay-at-home orders has accelerated the timetable for that discussion. Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, who represents the district in which some of theCongressman Mark DeSaulnier, who represents the district in which some of the reneries including Marathon are located, says he started conversations withreneries including Marathon are located, says he started conversations with labor groups, industry leaders and environmentalists before the pandemiclabor groups, industry leaders and environmentalists before the pandemic struck because the reckoning for the oil industry has been a long time coming.struck because the reckoning for the oil industry has been a long time coming. “The question was, how do we prepare for life without these facilities?” he said“The question was, how do we prepare for life without these facilities?” he said in an interview last week. “Because we’ve got to prepare for it.”in an interview last week. “Because we’ve got to prepare for it.” Marathon Petroleum, which bought the Martinez renery in 2018, announced atMarathon Petroleum, which bought the Martinez renery in 2018, announced at the end of July it will indenitely idle the facility and begin laying off its 740the end of July it will indenitely idle the facility and begin laying off its 740 employees in October, canceling contracts that provide temporary employmentemployees in October, canceling contracts that provide temporary employment to between 250 and 2,500 people at any given time.to between 250 and 2,500 people at any given time. “This decision to indenitely idle the Martinez Renery is based on the“This decision to indenitely idle the Martinez Renery is based on the company’s ongoing assessment of our operating costs and the competitivecompany’s ongoing assessment of our operating costs and the competitive position of our assets, as well as our continued evaluation of the broaderposition of our assets, as well as our continued evaluation of the broader economic and nancial impacts of COVID-19,” Patty Deutsche, the company’seconomic and nancial impacts of COVID-19,” Patty Deutsche, the company’s director of government and public affairs, told this news organization in andirector of government and public affairs, told this news organization in an emailed statement.emailed statement. The renery, which The renery, which started pausing operations in Aprilstarted pausing operations in April after coronavirus- after coronavirus- spawned lockdowns sent demand for oil plummeting, has mostly producedspawned lockdowns sent demand for oil plummeting, has mostly produced gasoline and diesel, as well as some propane, petroleum coke and othergasoline and diesel, as well as some propane, petroleum coke and other products. For now it’ll be used as a fuel storage facility, Deutsche said.products. For now it’ll be used as a fuel storage facility, Deutsche said. Meanwhile, Marathon is exploring a plan to turn the site into a 48,000 barrel-Meanwhile, Marathon is exploring a plan to turn the site into a 48,000 barrel- per-day renewable diesel operation. It intends to apply for permits to make thatper-day renewable diesel operation. It intends to apply for permits to make that switch, company leaders have told Contra Costa County.switch, company leaders have told Contra Costa County. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 39 of 45 8/18/2020 With Martinez Marathon refinery closing, leaders look ahead https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/08/08/marathon-refinery-closure-could-signal-big-transition-for-area-refineries/3/5 If permits are granted, Marathon could start producing diesel in a couple ofIf permits are granted, Marathon could start producing diesel in a couple of years and hit “full production” by 2024, Deutsche said.years and hit “full production” by 2024, Deutsche said. Marathon isn’t alone in making changes.Marathon isn’t alone in making changes. Chevron has said it made changes to its reneries in response to the lowerChevron has said it made changes to its reneries in response to the lower demand for oil, although it has not publicly disclosed how that has affected itsdemand for oil, although it has not publicly disclosed how that has affected its Richmond plant. Other energy companies with reneries in the area — PhillipsRichmond plant. Other energy companies with reneries in the area — Phillips 66, Valero, and PBF Energy — have also adjusted production levels since the66, Valero, and PBF Energy — have also adjusted production levels since the start of the pandemic.start of the pandemic. The price of crude oil and gasoline plummeted when much of the nation wentThe price of crude oil and gasoline plummeted when much of the nation went on lockdown because reneries couldn’t stop production fast enough, saidon lockdown because reneries couldn’t stop production fast enough, said Severin Borenstein, an energy economist at UC Berkeley who has studied the oilSeverin Borenstein, an energy economist at UC Berkeley who has studied the oil and gasoline industries.and gasoline industries. As a result, the “long, slow decline” of the oil industry that has been forecastAs a result, the “long, slow decline” of the oil industry that has been forecast because of the push for renewable, cleaner energy suddenly picked up steam,because of the push for renewable, cleaner energy suddenly picked up steam, Borenstein said. “The pandemic came along and really whacked them,” heBorenstein said. “The pandemic came along and really whacked them,” he added.added. “It’s an unfortunate situation. There are literally hundreds of thousands of“It’s an unfortunate situation. There are literally hundreds of thousands of workforce hours that come out of that facility,” Bill Whitney, head of the Contraworkforce hours that come out of that facility,” Bill Whitney, head of the Contra Costa Building Trades Council, said of the Marathon renery closure. “ItCosta Building Trades Council, said of the Marathon renery closure. “It impacts tters, welders, boilermakers, ironworkers, painters, electricians,impacts tters, welders, boilermakers, ironworkers, painters, electricians, laborers. So across the board, it will have an impact.”laborers. So across the board, it will have an impact.” Tracy Scott, of United Steelworkers 5, called the impact “devastating,”Tracy Scott, of United Steelworkers 5, called the impact “devastating,” acknowledging the outlook for traditional oil renery work is “not looking goodacknowledging the outlook for traditional oil renery work is “not looking good in the moment.”in the moment.” He said the union is trying to help the hundreds of workers it represents get newHe said the union is trying to help the hundreds of workers it represents get new jobs.jobs. Some environmentalists say that had the “just transition” from oil to renewableSome environmentalists say that had the “just transition” from oil to renewable energy started long ago, such sudden job losses could have been avoided. Theyenergy started long ago, such sudden job losses could have been avoided. They say the companies should start start scaling down oil rening for export now tosay the companies should start start scaling down oil rening for export now to ensure workers can be trained to gradually shift into new energy technologyensure workers can be trained to gradually shift into new energy technology jobs.jobs. Shutting down a renery abruptly like Marathon did doesn’t accomplish thatShutting down a renery abruptly like Marathon did doesn’t accomplish that because it’s unplanned, said Greg Karras, a longtime environmentalist withbecause it’s unplanned, said Greg Karras, a longtime environmentalist with Community Energy reSource who recently completed Community Energy reSource who recently completed a report about breakinga report about breaking away from oil reneriesaway from oil reneries in California. It’s incumbent upon policymakers to in California. It’s incumbent upon policymakers to gure out long-term solutions now, he added.gure out long-term solutions now, he added. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 40 of 45 8/18/2020 With Martinez Marathon refinery closing, leaders look ahead https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/08/08/marathon-refinery-closure-could-signal-big-transition-for-area-refineries/4/5 Marathon’s renewable diesel facility plan is not the ultimate solution, he said,Marathon’s renewable diesel facility plan is not the ultimate solution, he said, noting that, for one, renewable diesel still involves burning. There’s also anoting that, for one, renewable diesel still involves burning. There’s also a limited capacity for developing the agricultural products required for renewablelimited capacity for developing the agricultural products required for renewable diesel.diesel. “Should we really be using our limited capacity just so companies like Marathon“Should we really be using our limited capacity just so companies like Marathon can squeeze out a few more bucks?” he asked.can squeeze out a few more bucks?” he asked. And although storing oil at the facility in the interim will at least reduce theAnd although storing oil at the facility in the interim will at least reduce the renery’s emissions, the operation will require only  about 60 jobs.renery’s emissions, the operation will require only  about 60 jobs. “The longterm question is, ‘what’s the best and highest use of that land?'”“The longterm question is, ‘what’s the best and highest use of that land?'” Karras said of the Martinez facility. “Probably most people who live around itKarras said of the Martinez facility. “Probably most people who live around it would say it’s not just storing oil there.”would say it’s not just storing oil there.” Contra Costa Supervisor John Gioia told this news organization he has talked toContra Costa Supervisor John Gioia told this news organization he has talked to fellow government ofcials and others about planning for the future.fellow government ofcials and others about planning for the future. Gioia, who sits on the air district board, said he’s heartened by the possibility ofGioia, who sits on the air district board, said he’s heartened by the possibility of Marathon investing in renewable diesel but believes there needs to beMarathon investing in renewable diesel but believes there needs to be discussions about the long term for all the reneries.discussions about the long term for all the reneries. “How do we think in the future,” he said. “About going forward with“How do we think in the future,” he said. “About going forward with transitioning these well paid workers and well-paying jobs into future well-transitioning these well paid workers and well-paying jobs into future well- paying jobs.”paying jobs.” Report an errorReport an error Policies and StandardsPolicies and Standards Contact UsContact Us Stay up to date on the latest Coronavirus coverage in your area.Stay up to date on the latest Coronavirus coverage in your area. Sign up for the Coronavirus UpdateSign up for the Coronavirus Update newsletternewsletter Enter your email SIGN UP By signing up, you agree to our By signing up, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of serviceprivacy policy and terms of service .. SPONSORED CONTENTSPONSORED CONTENT 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 41 of 45 8/18/2020 Rodeo Renewed https://www.phillips66.com/newsroom/rodeo-renewed 1/3 Phillips 66 plans world’s largest renewable fuels plant By Bernardo Fallas Phillips 66 Corporate Communications Phillips 66 is going big on renewables in California. The company on Aug. 12 unveiled plans to convert the San Francisco Renery’s Rodeo facility into the world’s largest renewable fuels plant in support of growing demand for these high-value products and California’s environmental goals. Click here (https://newsroom.phillips66.com/news-releases/news-releases- details/2020/Phillips-66-Plans-to-Transform-San-Francisco-Renery-into-Worlds- Largest-Renewable-Fuels-Plant/default.aspx) to read the news release. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 42 of 45 8/18/2020 Rodeo Renewed https://www.phillips66.com/newsroom/rodeo-renewed 2/3 Dubbed Rodeo Renewed, the project will recongure Rodeo to produce 800 million gallons per year of renewable diesel, renewable gasoline and sustainable jet fuel from used cooking oils, fats, greases and soybean oils. If approved, production of these fuels is expected to begin in early 2024. “Phillips 66 is taking a signicant step with Rodeo Renewed to support demand for renewable fuels and help California meet its low-carbon objectives,” Phillips 66 Chairman and CEO Greg Garland said. “We believe the world will require a mix of fuels to meet the growing need for aordable energy, and the renewable fuels from Rodeo Renewed will be an important part of that mix.” Phillips 66 also announced plans to shut down its Santa Maria rening facility in Arroyo Grande, California, starting in 2023 and its carbon plant in Rodeo later that same year. Santa Maria is currently part of the Phillips 66 San Francisco Renery and supplies Rodeo with intermediate products via a 200-mile pipeline. Associated crude oil pipelines will be taken out of service in phases starting in 2023. Rodeo Renewed is a major addition to Phillips 66’s portfolio of renewable and alternative fuel projects, which include other renewable diesel investments on the West Coast and in the United Kingdom, hydrogen fueling stations in Switzerland and green hydrogen production in the U.K. Renewable diesel is a “drop-in” replacement fuel that is chemically identical to crude oil-derived diesel but with lower carbon intensity. Renewable gasoline and sustainable jet fuel are also considered “drop-in” replacements when blended to make low-carbon, low-sulfur, high-performing fuels. The conversion is expected to signicantly improve Rodeo’s protability while lowering its operating costs. It is also expected to reduce the plant’s greenhouse gas emissions by 50%, and enable Phillips 66 to cover its California Low-Carbon Fuel Standards obligations. Phillips 66 will construct pre-treatment units, repurpose existing hydrocrackers and leverage existing logistical infrastructure to achieve the reconguration, which will yield 680 million gallons per year (44,000 barrels per day) of renewable transportation fuels. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 43 of 45 8/18/2020 Rodeo Renewed https://www.phillips66.com/newsroom/rodeo-renewed 3/3 Rodeo already is adding 120 million gallons per year (8,000 BPD) of renewable diesel through a hydrotreater conversion project set for startup by mid-2021. That project will use soybean oil as feedstock. “(Rodeo Renewed) is a great example of how Phillips 66 is making investments in the energy transition that will create long-term value for our shareholders,” Garland said. To learn more about the project, visit RodeoRenewed.com (https://www.rodeorenewed.com/). Published August 12, 2020 Next story: PHILLIPS 66 REFINERIES TAKE INDUSTRY’S TOP SAFETY HONORS © Phillips 66 Company. All rights reserved. Terms and Conditions (/terms-conditions) and Privacy Statement. (/privacy-statement) California Transparency in Supply Chains Disclosure. (/Documents/california- transparency-supply-chains-disclosure.pdf) 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 44 of 45 Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission 7. Meeting Date: 8/24/2020 Subject: RECEIVE Report from Sustainability Commission Chair and IDENTIFY TOPICS for next report to Ad Hoc Committee on Sustainability Department: Conservation & Development Presenter: Howdy Goudey, Chair Contact: Jody London, DCD Referral History: This is a standing item of the Commission. Referral Update: The Sustainability Commission Chair provides an update at each meeting to Commission members on the administration of the Commission, meetings of the Board of Supervisors Ad Hoc Committee on Sustainability, and other issues of interest to the Commission. Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s): RECEIVE report from Sustainability Commission Chair. Fiscal Impact (if any): None. ATTACHMENT(S) No file(s) attached. 08-24-20 Sustainability Commission Mtg - Agenda Packet, Page 45 of 45