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HomeMy WebLinkAboutREAL ESTATE, ENVIRONMENTAL & PLANNING MINUTES 12-18-17BOARD OF DIRECTORS: PAUL H. CAUSEY President JAMES A. NEJEDLY President Pro Tem MICHAEL R. MCGILL TAD J. PILECKI DAVID R. WILLIAMS PHONE: (925) 228-9500 FAX: (925) 676-7211 www.centralsan.org SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CENTRAL CONTRA COSTA SANITARY DISTRICT REAL ESTATE, ENVIRONMENTAL & PLANNING COMMITTEE M I N U T E S Monday, December 18, 2017 9:00 a.m. 2nd Floor Conference Room 5019 Imhoff Place Martinez, California Committee Chair Paul Causey Member Tad Pilecki Invited Guests (all guests left after Item 4.a.) Mike Tognolini, DERWA Authority Manager Alex Coate, General Manager, East Bay Municipal Utility District Dan McIntyre, General Manager, Dublin San Ramon Services District Judy Zavadil, Engineering Services Manager, Dublin San Ramon Services District Steven Delight, Senior Engineer, Dublin San Ramon Services District Staff Roger S. Bailey, General Manager Donna Anderson, Provisional Secretary of the District Ann Sasaki, Deputy General Manager Phil Leiber, Director of Finance and Administration (left after Item 4.e.) Jean-Marc Petit, Director of Engineering and Technical Services Danea Gemmell, Planning and Development Services Division Manager Melody LaBella, Program Manager - Resource Recovery (left after Item 4.c.) Lori Schectel, Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Division Manager Paul Seitz, Collection System Operations Division Manager Dan Frost, Senior Engineer (left after Item 3.a.) Clint Shima, Senior Engineer Justin Waples, Associate Engineer (left after Item 3.a.) Leo Gonzalez, Pumping Station Supervisor David Wyatt, Household Hazardous Waste Supervisor (left after Item 4.d.) Lupe Saldana, Administrative Services Supervisor January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 215 of 241 Page 2 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 2 1. Call Meeting to Order Chair Causey called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. Item 4.a. was taken out of order to accommodate the invited guests. 2. Public Comments None. 3. Items for Committee Recommendation to Board a. Review draft Position Paper authorizing the General Manager to continue waiving the volumetric fee for commercial recycled water truck fill users for Calendar Year 2018 Mr. Waples reviewed the information provided in the agenda packet and responded to Committee questions. He said it was prudent to continue the waiver to incentivize usage. COMMITTEE ACTION: Recommended Board approval. 4. Other Items a. Receive update on Dublin San Ramon Services District-East Bay Municipal Utility District Recycled Water Authority (DERWA) request to develop a Memorandum of Understanding for a pilot project to divert raw wastewater from Central San’s service area for the purpose of producing recycled water to meet DERWA’s peak summer irrigation demand This item taken out of order immediately after Item 2. Ms. LaBella provided an overview of the memorandum provided in the agenda packet for this item, reviewed the schematics for Diversion Alternatives 2 and 4, and explained that DSRSD staff has suggested starting with Diversion Alternative 4 as a pilot and working toward Diversion Alternative 2, which would take all of Central San’s dry weather wastewater flow. She then referred to the operational and policy concerns for each alternative (attachments to the memorandum). Staff responded to various Committee questions regarding the two diversion alternatives. Chair Causey asked how much wastewater flow DSRSD is requesting and Ms. Zavadil responded they are initially asking for 1.3 million gallons per day (MGD) from the west side of the creek for one month in the summer. January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 216 of 241 Page 3 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 3 Chair Causey asked for justification from staff as to why they do not recommend the diversion since DSRSD is willing to pay for the treatment costs and typically flows are low in the summer. Mr. Petit explained that Diversion Alternative 2 would create a situation that would take the San Ramon Pump Station offline, thus increasing the potential for overflows and odor issues; and Diversion Alternative 4 would take 1.3 MGD of the typically 2.5 MGD dry weather flow, leaving the station running continuously at low flow, which can easily damage the pumps. Mr. Gonzalez referred to operational concerns (Attachment C of the agenda packet materials for this item), emphasized that equipment issues are unknown, and stated that restarting a pump station is a major event. Chair Causey stated that cost is not an issue because DSRSD confirmed today that it will cover costs for the project. Mr. Bailey noted that staff was not making a recommendation today; rather, it was seeking direction from the Committee whether to continue to investigate the viability of the proposal. Chair Causey stated his opinion that this diversion project can be done irrespective of other projects under consideration for use of recycled water because DSRSD confirmed today that it is willing to enter into a contract that allows for the diversion to stop if necessary. Mr. Petit commented that staff needs to consider other planned recycled water commitments such as the Refinery Recycled Water Exchange Project with Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), the Concord Community Reuse Project (also known as the Concord Naval Weapons Station), the Diablo Country Club Satellite Water Recycling Facility, etc., to determine how much recycled water Central San can produce so it does not overcommit. Mr. Bailey added that the recycled water exchange concept between Central San, CCWD, and Santa Clara Valley Water District should also be considered now that letters of support have been sent. Ms. LaBella noted her concern that DERWA’s recycled water needs may increase as well, since the DERWA agencies continue connecting new recycled water demand, making it difficult to sever its reliance on Central San’s wastewater flow if this diversion is pursued. Ms. Zavadil stated that Diversion Alternative 4 is an interim project that is most easily implemented now when DSRSD needs it. She explained that they are investigating options with other agencies, including East Bay Dischargers’ Authority (EBDA) and groundwater supply, not just Central San. She said that the design and construction costs to put in the manholes could pay off for them in as little as three years, which presents a very economical alternative for DERWA. Mr. Coate said the information in the agenda packet materials made it seem as if the diversion project would no longer be considered which is why he came today; he wanted to make Central San aware that the DERWA team January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 217 of 241 Page 4 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 4 wants to make sure Central San is not incurring any costs or risk and it does not want to compromise Central San. In DERWA’s opinion, the pilot can go quickly and talks can continue regarding economic analyses for something more permanent once Central San’s concerns are understood. He would want to know if it is cost effective for a short-term project and, if all decide to go forward, take one step at a time; if it works, great, but if something that makes Central San uncomfortable occurs and it cannot be addressed in the contract, then the project will not go forward. Chair Causey expressed his interest in moving forward with the project as he believes it is a short-term solution. Member Pilecki expressed that he is not ready to commit to a permanent option because of his experience when San Ramon residents tried to stop the Dougherty Valley pump station project. He would rather a pilot be done cautiously, and then have staff come back to the Committee with a recommendation. Mr. Bailey said the San Ramon City Council Members who received Central San’s recycled water presentation echoed Member Pilecki’s concerns. He said that in exploring the pilot, an open mind should be kept. He asked the Committee to keep the door open for the diversion conversation to continue. He cautioned that it is important to understand all the issues before moving forward with a permanent option; and staff is not ready to propose a permanent option at this time. Member Pilecki commented that the pilot suggested by Central San staff, which would involve a temporary sump pump in manhole 11, would reveal the conditions of other force mains and other unknowns, and added that bioxide (the odor control and corrosion control chemical used) is more expensive than gasoline and the need for bioxide could possibly triple. In his experience with San Ramon, small steps would work best. Ms. Zavadil said she is looking at doing something very simple with fewer mechanical parts on a pilot basis. Chair Causey said it appeared clear that the Committee would recommend continuing to analyze the DERWA proposal, it is just a question of what level. Member Pilecki said he would prefer that this update be presented to the full Board to make sure there is full support before staff performs further work on this proposed project. Chair Causey concurred. COMMITTEE ACTION: Received the update and directed staff present the update to the full Board for input and direction. January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 218 of 241 Page 5 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 5 b. Receive update on future renewable energy procurement Mr. Petit explained that to understand the power demands that will be required in the future, the bioenergy project (P3) and other projects that will change the power needs at the plant need to be taken into consideration. Mr. Bailey interjected that an understanding of what bioenergy offers is needed before considering solar as a renewable energy source. Mr. Petit added that solar energy vendors have approached Central San to consider adding solar panels to parking lots and the headquarters office building, and possibly leasing buffer property land for revenue, but staff believes it best to wait until completion of the P3 project. Member Pilecki agreed with this approach because solar is not the cheapest energy source and gasification will be a game changer. Chair Causey expressed amazement that while all other treatment plants are putting in solar power, Central San is not. He said he is hopeful that a solar portfolio is created as he does not view cogeneration as a sustainable long- term source of power. Mr. Petit acknowledged Chair Causey’s disappointment and assured him that solar is part of the equation, just not right now. Staff will likely be in a better position to prepare and issue a Request for Proposal within the next six to nine months for renewable energy such as solar. COMMITTEE ACTION: Received the update. c. Receive update on the municipal service review on Mt. View Sanitary District Mr. Bailey said that this topic was initiated by a Mt. View Sanitary District (MVSD) Board member who approached a Central San Board Member about it and that is why he asked Ms. Gemmell to reach out to the MVSD General Manager. Ms. Gemmell reached out to MVSD and spoke with the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). She said that the last LAFCO municipal service review for the MVSD was completed in 2014 and the next one is anticipated in 2020. She said, though it was a very positive discussion with MVSD where she offered the possibility of Central San assistance in a variety of areas, she believes the situation will remain as is for the foreseeable future. COMMITTEE ACTION: Received the update. d. Receive update on future planning ideas for the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program Mr. Wyatt reviewed the information provided in the agenda packet for this item. January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 219 of 241 Page 6 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 6 Chair Causey asked if there are any potential new types of hazardous waste. Mr. Wyatt said none were known at this time that would dramatically affect HHW facility capacity or cost. He added that solar cells are on the horizon but does not recommend accepting them because they are similar to electronic wastes, of which the HHW facility does not accept. Regarding Chair Causey’s inquiry on status of pharmaceutical growth, Mr. Wyatt said that the County ordinance, if adopted, could reduce or eliminate Central San’s pharmaceutical collection program as manufacturers may want to utilize our established collection sites, creating up to $35,000 savings annually. He explained that manufacturer-sponsored pharmaceutical take- back programs are currently in operation in Canada, Mexico and other countries Mr. Wyatt recommended to continue to support product stewardship initiatives to help control Central San costs in managing waste recycling and disposal. There was discussion by the Committee and staff regarding how other agencies are handling household hazardous waste, and opportunities to partner with Dublin or San Ramon to share costs of facilities or a joint venture with Alameda to serve those cities. The Committee expressed interest in researching door-to-door collection for homebound and aging populations, if the full Board was interested. The Committee recommended that staff provide the HHW Future Planning Ideas presentation to the full Board COMMITTEE ACTION: Received the update and directed staff to give the HHW Program Future Planning Ideas presentation to the full Board at a future Board meeting. e. Receive update on the most recent meeting of the Bay Area Clean Water Agencies (BACWA) Ms. Schectel said that Mr. Petit attended the recent quarterly joint meeting between BACWA and the Regional Board (SFQWCB) staff in her absence, and that she attended the December BACWA Executive Board meeting. The next BACWA meeting is the Annual meeting and will take place on January 19. The meeting will have a regulatory focus with similar speakers as last year. Mr. Petit added that topics to be discussed at the Regional Board quarterly meeting will be a meeting of minds between air quality and water. He commented that the Air Board’s willingness to participate is a good change. January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 220 of 241 Page 7 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 7 Chair Causey noted that recycled water should be added to topics of discussion regarding cross-cutting issues. Ms. Schectel reviewed current issues the BACWA Board has been discussing. With respect to how to handle cannabis operations, she said staff is looking to see what is being done around the counties in terms of ordinances, bans, etc., and that Central San will consider creating standards for pretreatment which staff is researching. Mr. Petit indicated that he received the proposed status of local cannabis ordinances and the permitting approach from EBMUD and shared it with staff. Staff and the Committee discussed a variety of topics and current issues and what Central San and other agencies are doing, such as sea level rise and microplastics. Ms. Schectel said that Bruce Wolf of the Regional Board will be briefing his Board at the July meeting on the second Nutrient Watershed Permit. Mr. Petit said that a BACWA Nutrient and Optimization study conducted by HDR and B&C is reaching the final draft stage. It presents how each member agency, including Central San could meet levels 1, 2, and 3 requirements for nutrient reduction. The Regional Board wants every member agency to certify they agree with the findings. He said staff has received a draft report on the findings, as well as the proposed language of the letter that each agency will need to sign. These documents are being reviewed now and he will bring it to Mr. Bailey for review. Ms. Schectel noted that the Regional Board has signed a Letter of Intent expressing that load caps will not be implemented in the next nutrient watershed permit. The Committee requested the BACWA regional study draft report be taken directly to the full Board for review. Mr. Bailey said the current watershed permit expires in 2019 and the next permit will expire in 2024; potentially between 2024 and 2029 some actions may need to be taken. Mr. Petit added that the Capital Improvement Budget currently includes $10 million scheduled at the end of the decade related to Level 1 BACWA nutrient removal; that it was added as a placeholder in anticipation of meeting the level 1 requirement (i.e., no net loading and optimization of existing facilities in reducing nutrient load to the Bay). He said staff is doing an evaluation and will bring a pilot testing proposal to the Committee in the future. COMMITTEE ACTION: Received the update and directed staff to take the Regional Board draft report to the full Board for review. January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 221 of 241 Page 8 of 9 Real Estate, Environmental & Planning Committee Minutes December 18, 2017 Page 8 f. Review list of Scheduled/Parking Lot items Sewer lateral inspection and repair on sold properties - Chair Causey said California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA) should have completed its survey by the end of this year, which means the earliest this item could come back to the Committee would be after January 2018. Acme Fill permit contract renewal - Chair Causey said this item should come back to the Committee no later than May 2018. Mr. Petit indicated that staff has already met and assignments have been issued to address the questions and concerns raised in order to meet the May 2018 deadline and issue findings. CoCo San Sustainable Farm - Chair Causey said he would prefer the quarterly updates be given to the full Board, not the Committee. Member Pilecki said he would prefer the updates come to the Committee prior to going to the full Board so that the format of the report can be reviewed, then to the full board. COMMITTEE ACTION: Reviewed the list and provided input to staff as noted above. 5. Announcements Mr. Bailey announced that the Santa Clara Valley Water District will consider letter of interest in the recycled water exchange at their next Board meeting, that Contra Costa Water District is planning to attend the meeting, and that he will also be attending. Mr. Petit announced that he plans on requesting approval to attend the 2018 IFAT Wastewater and Recycling international conference in Munich Germany. This conference takes place every two years. In 2016, he attended that conference for the first time and paid for his own hotel and travel expenses. The district paid for his time. He presented his findings to the Committee and full Board who expressed support for staff attending these types of conferences in the future. 6. Future scheduled meetings: 2018 Meeting Dates To Be Determined 7. Suggestions for future agenda items As noted above. 8. Adjournment – at 11:11 a.m. January 4, 2018 Regular Board Meeting Agenda Packet - Page 222 of 241 Page 9 of 9