HomeMy WebLinkAbout05.c. Review draft Position Paper to conduct a Public Hearing to consider approval of a resolution to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration And Mitigation, Monitoring And Reporting Program, And Approving The Proposed Solar Array Project On Cen Page 1 of 21
Item 5.c.
CENTRAL SAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS
. , , .
POSITION PAPER
. ,
DRAFT
MEETING DATE: AUGUST 16, 2021
SUBJECT: REVIEW DRAFT POSITION PAPER TO CONDUCTA PUBLIC HEARING TO
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 2021- ADOPTINGA
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATIONAND MITIGATION, MONITORING
AND REPORTING PROGRAM, AND APPROVING THE PROPOSED SOLAR
ARRAY PROJECT ON CENTRAL SAN'S LAGISS PROPERTY; AUTHORIZE
THE GENERAL MANAGER TO 1) EXECUTE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO
CENTRAL SAN'S POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH REC SOLAR;
AND 2)AMEND AN EXISTINGAS-NEEDED PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH ARC ALTERNATIVES, INCREASING THE
COST CEILING.
SUBMITTED BY: INITIATING DEPARTMENT:
RUSS LEAVITT, ENGINEERING ASSISTANT ENGINEERING AND TECHNICAL SERVICES-
III RESOURCE RECOVERY
MELODY LABELLA, RESOURCE RECOVERY
PROGRAM MANAGER
REVIEWED BY: JEAN-MARC PETIT, DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNICAL
SERVICES
ISSUE
In order for REC Solar Commercial Corporation (REC Solar), also known as Duke Energy, to move
forward with construction of a Solar Project on Central San's Lagiss Property, Central San's Board of
Directors (Board) must adopt the appropriate California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documentation
and approve the project. In addition, Board authorization is required to amend existing agreements over
$200,000.
BACKGROUND
At its November 5, 2020 meeting, the Board awarded a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)to REC Solar
for a solar photovoltaic system on Central San's property. After its substantial design, a draft Mitigated
Negative Declaration (MND) has been prepared under CEQA for construction and operation of a 1.75
megawatt solar panel array. The project would be located on approximately 8.2 acres of a 48-acre parcel at
4451 Blum Road in unincorporated Martinez (assessor's parcel number 159-140-042-7), which is owned
by Central San, and referred to as the "Lagiss parcel" (see Attachment 1).
The proposed solar panel array would be accessed from the northern end of Blum Road via extension of
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an existing private driveway and encircled by a service road and perimeter fence. The existing surface area
to be covered by the proposed, ground-mounted, solar panel modules is approximately 2.5 acres.
Combined, solar panel modules together with the service road and driveway, the area covered is
approximately 4 acres of the 8.2 acres. The remainder (4.2 acres) is generally retention basins or aisle
space between rows of solar panels, with only minor area being used for inverters; panelboards; main
photovoltaic switchboard; step-down, pad-mounted transformer; and intertie switchgear.
As Lead Agency under CEQA, Central San has conducted an Initial Study of the proposed project to
determine if it would have a significant effect on the environment. Staff has concluded that the Initial
Study adequately, accurately, and objectively evaluates the environmental impacts of the proposed
project, and that a MND is the appropriate document to address the environmental effects of the project.
The Initial Study is included as part of the proposed MN that was made available to the Board.
The proposed MND (State Clearinghouse #2021070215)finds that there is no substantial evidence
before Central San that the proposed project would have significant effects on the environment.
Mitigation measures have been incorporated into the project to reduce potentially significant impacts to
less-than-significant levels. These measures are discussed in the proposed MND and included in its
proposed Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program (see Attachment 2).
At the time this position paper was prepared, no comment letters on the proposed MND had been
received. The deadline for receiving comments is August 13, 2021. Any comment letters and Central
San's responses will be presented in Attachment 3. Nothing in the comment letters is expected to require
changes in the conclusions of the proposed MND. Before the proposed project may be approved, the
Board must consider any comments received during the MND's 30-day public review process and the
public hearing, and then consider approval of the appropriate CEQA documentation (a MND is
recommended in this case). Then, the Board may consider approval of the proposed project.
While not required by law or Central San procedures, it has been Central San's customary practice to hold
public hearings in advance of the adoption of MNDs. Holding a hearing on the proposed MND would be
consistent with this practice. Following approval of both the MND and the project, a Notice of
Determination will be filed with the County Clerk. REC Solar will then begin applying for project permits
and other approvals from regulatory agencies and, subsequently, construct the project.
Since the time the Board approved execution of the PPA with REC Solar, the project has been moving
forward through the design and pre-permitting processes. Increases in the project cost, due to the site
access requirements by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and higher-than-anticipated costs
of the PG&E grid interconnection, have added costs to the project, resulting in a change order request by
REC Solar for an increase in the price of its solar power. After a thorough review by Central San's staff
and consultant, ARC Alternatives (ARC), staff is recommending the Board's approval of the project and
Amendment No. 1 to the PPA, which will increase the cost of solar power from $0.0866 to $0.10 per
kilowatt hour (kWh). This rate adjustment and changes to the design and schedule result in a need to
update a number of sections in our PPA, which will be addressed in Amendment No. 1. Sections/content
in the PPA to be updated in Amendment No. 1 include: early termination fees, purchase option values,
milestones, schedule, layout, annual production values, etc.
Staff is also recommending that Central San continue to retain solar consultant, ARC, and increase the
ceiling of their existing as-needed consulting agreement by$50,000 to support Central San through the
construction and commissioning of the Solar Array Project. ARC's experience in implementing solar
projects for public agencies in California has been invaluable in guiding Central San in the development
and implementation of this project. Staff hired ARC in April 2019, after an informal selection process, and
initially executed an as-needed consulting services contract for$29,600. After exemplary performance,
staff has continued to add scope and budget, under staff authority, to ARC's contract. Tasks have
included: supporting the implementation of Central San's Solar Project from scoping to procurement to
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contract negotiations and design review, performing an energy efficiency audit at Central San's main
campus, performing an evaluation of the performance of Central San's existing solar arrays, and
developing procurement documents for a lighting efficiency replacement project at the treatment plant. As
ARC's contract amount is reaching the limit of the General Manager's authority, staff is seeking the
Board's authorization for the General Manager to raise the cost ceiling of ARC's existing as-needed
consulting agreement from $179,600 to $229,600.
ALTERNATIVES/CONSIDERATIONS
1. Deny or defer adoption of the MND or Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program. This action
would prevent or delay moving forward with the potential approval of the project. If approval of the
MND or Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program is denied, direction should be given to staff
as to which issues require further documentation.
2. Deny or defer approval of the proposed project. This action would prevent or delay moving
forward with project construction. If approval of the proposed project is denied or deferred,
direction should be given to staff as to how to proceed.
I n terms of the other staff-recommended Board actions, the Board could decide not to authorize the
General Manager to execute the PPA amendment, but that is not recommended, as it would halt
implementation of the Solar Array Project. The Board could also decide not to authorize the General
Manager to increase the cost ceiling on ARC's as-needed professional consulting services agreement.
That is also not recommended, as ARC's significant knowledge and experience in implementing solar
projects in California have been invaluable in ensuring a high-quality solar project for Central San at
substantial savings over the term of the PPA.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
The increase in the cost of solar energy from $0.0866 to $0.10 per kWh will result in a net additional cost of
$425,000 to Central San over the 25-year PPA term. Even with that additional cost, the project is currently
estimated to save Central San $6 million over the 25-year term of the PPA with REC Solar and be cash-
positive in year one. With these savings, the project exceeds the standard in the Board's Energy Policy,
which requires renewable energy projects to be cash-positive within five years.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
I n compliance with the Central San's CEQA Guidelines, legal notices were published in the Contra Costa
Times, and the San Ramon Valley Times, newspapers of general circulation in the area affected by the
proposed project. The legal notices announced Central San's intent to adopt a Mitigated Negative
Declaration and the availability of the document at www.centralsan.org/solar for a 30-day public review
period. Additionally, copies of the notice were mailed to affected public agencies and property owners in
the Blum Road area.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Real Estate, Environmental and Planning Committee reviewed this matter at its meeting on August
16, 2021, and recommended
RECOMMENDED BOARD ACTION
Staff recommends the Board:
1. Conduct a public hearing on the Mitigated Negative Declaration. Barring any irresolvable public
comments to the contrary, approve the proposed resolution (Attachment 4) adopting the Mitigated
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Page 4 of 21
Negative Declaration and Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program, and approving the
proposed Solar Panel Array Project on Central San's Lagiss property;
2. Authorize the General Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to Central San's Power Purchase
Agreement with REC Solar that includes a solar energy purchase price increase from $0.0866 to
$0.10 per kilowatt-hour; and
3. Authorize the General Manager to amend an existing as-needed professional consulting services
agreement with ARC Alternatives, increasing the cost ceiling from $179,600 to $229,600.
Strategic Plan re-In
GOAL ONE: Customer and Community
Strategy 2—Maintain a positive reputation
GOAL TWO: Environmental Stewardship
Strategy 4- Reduce reliance on non-renewable energy
GOAL THREE: Fiscal Responsibility
Strategy 1—Maintain financial stability and sustainability
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Proposed Solar Project Location Map
2. Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program
3. Comments and Responses
4. Resolution
5. Presentation
August 16, 2021 REEP Committee Meeting Agenda Packet- Page 31 of 69
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Page 6 of 21
ATTACHMENT 2
CENTRAL SAN SOLAR PANEL ARRAY PROJECT
4451 BLUM ROAD IN UNINCORPORATED MARTINEZ
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN
Introduction
This document presents the Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan (MMRP)
for the Central San Solar Panel Array Project at the north end of Blum Road.
This MMRP is required by Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 and
Section 15097 of the CEQA Guidelines.
Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan
This MMRP includes the mitigation measures identified in the Mitigated Negative
Declaration (MND) required to avoid or reduce potential impacts related to
construction or operation of the proposed project. The MMRP is organized in a
table format, keyed to each potential impact and each MND mitigation measure.
Mitigation measures are presented in the table and are coded by number to the
appropriate MND section. Column headings in the table are defined as follows:
• Measure Number: This column lists the label used for the corresponding
mitigation measure as listed in the MND.
• Mitigation Measure: This column contains the mitigation measures to be
implemented.
• Implementation Procedure: This column contains a description of the
action(s) that need to be taken to comply with the purpose and intent of
each mitigation measure.
• Monitoring and Reporting Actions: This column contains an outline of
the appropriate steps to verify compliance with the mitigation measure.
• Monitoring Responsibility: This column contains an assignment of
responsibility for the monitoring and reporting tasks.
• Monitoring Schedule: The general schedule for conducting each
monitoring and reporting task, identifying, where appropriate, both the timing
and the frequency of the action.
2-1
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TABLE 1
CENTRAL SAN SOLAR PANEL ARRAY PROJECT
4451 BLUM ROAD IN UNINCORPORATED MARTINEZ
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Measure Mitigation Measure Implementation Procedure Monitoring and Reporting Actions Monitoring Monitoring Schedule
Number Responsibility
Biology
111-1 BUOW avoidance surveys (also termed"pre- Multiple surveys may be 1) Review construction schedule and REC/Duke 1) Retain qualified biologist and
construction surveys")shall be conducted no necessary, based upon the determine appropriate coverage so that assess coverage needs prior to
less than two(2)weeks prior to any ground schedule and work progress. BUOW avoidance surveys(also termed the start of construction
disturbance. BUOW avoidance surveys are "pre-construction surveys")are
recommended for ground mount conducted no less than two(2)weeks 2) Conduct each survey two weeks
Surveys shall be conducted by a qualified installation, perimeter service prior to any ground disturbance. prior to ground disturbance.
biologist following Burrowing Owl Survey road and access driveway 3 Throughout construction,after
Protocol methods. construction, utility trench 2) Review findings report to be submitted ) g
excavation, and equipment pads. by the qualified biologist within 24 hours each survey,file a compliance
after his/her survey. report.
If installation of ground mounts
for arrays are staggered over an 3) Based upon the pre-construction survey
elapsed time of one month or findings, if burrowing owls are found on
longer, it is recommended that or next to the project site,one of the
separate surveys be performed following additional mitigation measures
for each array. (III-2A or III-2B)shall be implemented:
11I-2A If burrowing owls are found to occupy an area If fenced,the restricted area after 1) Qualified biologist to document the REC/Duke 1)Throughout construction,after
of construction or an area proximate to the it is fenced shall not be entered BUOW fence and coordination with each monitoring event by the
construction during September 1 to January or disturbed. Work can proceed CDFW. qualified biologist,file a simple
31 (non-breeding season): but only outside the fenced area. internal compliance report in the
2) Qualified biologist periodically during project file.
In this event,occupied burrows and additional If passive relocation is nesting system shall check the integrity
buffer zone shall be fenced per the CDFW recommended by the qualified of the BUOW fence.
Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. biologist,the qualified biologist
will implement passive relocation 3) Contractor shall note BUOW resource
If avoidance is not practical, passive in accordance with the plan zone avoidance in the worker
relocation may be implemented in accordance approved by CDFW. Work can awareness/safety training log.
with a Burrowing Owl Exclusion Plan 1 proceed outside the restricted
submitted to and approved by CDFW. area and can resume inside the
restricted area only after
certification of BUOW relocation.
Biology—(continued)
1 See CDFW Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation,Appendix E, March 7, 2012. https://nrm.dfp.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentlD=83843&inline
August 16, 2021 REEP Committee Meeting Agenda Packet- Page 34 of J92
TABLE 1 (continued)
CENTRAL SAN SOLAR PANEL ARRAY PROJECT
4451 BLUM ROAD IN UNINCORPORATED MARTINEZ
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Measure Mitigation Measure Implementation Procedure Monitoring and Reporting Actions Monitoring Monitoring Schedule
Number Responsibility
III-213 If burrowing owls are found during February 1 Occupied burrows and additional The qualified biologist shall initially inspect REC/Duke 1)Throughout construction, after
to August 31 (breeding season): buffer zone will be fenced, the exclusion fence and posting and, each monitoring event by the
posted, and avoided,without thereafter, shall periodically inspect qualified biologist,file a simple
This event is not anticipated in view of the disturbance during the entire compliance. Based upon personal compliance report.
proposed project construction schedule, nesting season. reconnaissance of the site,the qualified
which is September 1 through January 31. biologist shall certify when it is feasible to
However, necessary actions under this resume work at the end of the nesting
contingency are described below, in case an season
adjustment to the proposed construction
schedule becomes necessary.
If burrowing owls are found, ground-disturbing
activities will follow the Burrowing Owl
Consortium's burrowing owl avoidance
guidance. Occupied burrows and additional
buffer zone will be avoided,without
disturbance during the entire nesting season.
Cultural Resources
IV-3. To avoid potential inadvertent disturbance of Include requirements for worker 1) Note resource zone avoidance in the REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of
off-site historical resources during notification/orientation during worker awareness/safety training log. construction contract.
construction, off-site vehicle and pedestrian safety meetings,signage, and
travel will be prohibited except on the access installation of fencing in 2) Check daily signs posted along the 2) Before construction,for ordering
road. This can be accomplished with a construction contract fence. Replace as needed. appropriate signage to be posted
combination of worker notification/orientation specifications. along the fence.
during safety meetings,signage,and
installation of either temporary fencing or the Construction staging is prohibited 3)Daily or weekly during worker
permanent security fence early in the in the protected resource zone. awareness/safety meetings.
schedule.
IV-4 In the event of discovery of suspected The System Operator and 1) System Operator and contractor would REC/Duke As needed.
archaeological resources or buried human contractor would consult with the contact the County coroner and contact
remains,construction will be halted. County coroner, identified Holman&Associates(archaeologist).
descendants,—if any are
identified by the Native American 2) Qualified archaeologist would be
Heritage Commission (NAHC),— responsible for assessing and
and/or a qualified archaeologist, documenting the discovery.
depending on the nature of the 3) Consult with representatives identified
discovery. in previous consultation with parties
identified by the NAHC.
2-3
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TABLE 1 (continued)
CENTRAL SAN SOLAR PANEL ARRAY PROJECT
4451 BLUM ROAD IN UNINCORPORATED MARTINEZ
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Measure Mitigation Measure Implementation Procedure Monitoring and Reporting Actions Monitoring Monitoring Schedule
Number Responsibility
Air Quality
VIII-5 The construction project would implement Include requirements for dust 1) Review construction contract;verify REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of
basic mitigation measures recommended by suppression and anti-trackout of consistency with BAAQMD Basic Dust subcontract for construction of
the BAAQMD and listed in Table 8(see MND silt onto Blum Road,in Control Measures. roads.
Section VIII, page 57). With implementation of construction contract 2)Construct anti-trackout measures for
the basic mitigation measures and compliance specifications. removing soil from truck tire treads 2) Initially before earth disturbance.
with applicable Regulation 6, Rule 6,of the
BAAQMD,the proposed project would not 3)Post idling time and travel speed 3) Periodically check posted limits
conflict with the CAP. restrictions. during road grading,sub-
excavation,and construction.
Utilities and Service Systems
XII-6 Drainage outlets and retention basins around Incorporate permanent 1) Review construction contract;verify REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of
the perimeter service road have been stormwater controls as shown in consistency with SWCP. subcontract for construction of
designed so as not to alter the overall existing the SWCP into the contract roads.
drainage pattern or volume of runoff, documents and drawings.
concentrate runoff at unengineered collection 2) Periodically during backfilling with
points, or accelerate erosion. These features select fill materials and geotextile
will be constructed as shown in the SWCP. fabric.
XII-7 Assure that EOL recycling of components and Incorporate recycling 1) Review System Operator's contract; REC/Duke 1) Before demolition in 25-40 years.
materials(e.g., glass, aluminum)is performed requirements into the System verify contract consistency with
in a responsible sustainable way. Operator's contract. recycling at end of project useful 2) Periodically review EOL
lifetime. requirements every 5 years
Geology and Soils
XIV-8 A Geotechnical Engineering Investigation Construction contract to include 1) Review construction contract;verify REC/Duke 1) Prior to approval of the project's
Report has been performed to ascertain soil the specifications and details for compliance. final design plans and
and bedrock conditions across the site,so that ground mounts, racking, and construction contract.
appropriate load-bearing values and depths are concrete equipment pads. 2) Inspect construction activities to verify
used in the design(NV5,2021). California that design standards are implemented. 2) weekly or as appropriate during
Building Code Sections 1806 and 1807.4 construction.
address load-bearing values and embedded
post or poles. Construction of the proposed
project shall incorporate recommendations of
the Geotechnical Engineering Investigation
Report for ground mounts,access driveway,
perimeter service road,trenches,and flatwork.
Hydrology and Water Quality
2-4
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TABLE 1 (continued)
CENTRAL SAN SOLAR PANEL ARRAY PROJECT
4451 BLUM ROAD IN UNINCORPORATED MARTINEZ
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Measure Mitigation Measure Implementation Procedure Monitoring and Reporting Actions Monitoring Monitoring Schedule
Number Responsibility
XV-9 Implement on-site features recommended in Construction contract to include 1) Review construction contract. REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of grading
the SWCP and Geotechnical Engineering the retention pond limits, raised subcontract.
Investigation Report such as raised curbs, curbs, retention basins, rip rap 2)Verify compliance of work as-built with
retention basins,and rip rap spillways,and spillways, and geotextile fabric. specifications in the contract. 2) Weekly during construction of the
geotextile fabric to accommodate stormwater road and driveway extension.
runoff,minimize erosion,and retain 3) Upon completion of the road.
incremental runoff volumes added by proposed
impermeable surfaces.
XV-10 Prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Construction contract to include 3) Review construction contract. REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of
Plan (SWPPP)with practices to be the retention pond limits, construction subcontract for
implemented by the System Operator and spillways, utility trench for 4)Verify compliance of work as-built with seeding.
Contractor, such as seeding, mulching, interconnection. specifications in the contract.
installation of silt fence and straw wattle. 2) During each key seeding event.
Revegetation subcontractor to
be selected in consultation with
preparer of the SWCP and
SWPPP.
XV-11 Implement the measures recommended in Construction contract to include 1) Review construction contract. REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of grading
the SWCP during construction of the the retention pond limits, raised subcontract.
perimeter service road and driveway so as asphalt curbs, and spillways. 2)Verify compliance of work as built with
not to alter the overall drainage pattern of specifications in the contract, permit 2) Weekly during construction of the
the site. Along the asphalt paved segments approval and conditions issued by road and driveway extension.
of the perimeter service road, install the Contra Costa County Fire Prevention
raised asphalt curb,where shown,to direct Bureau's Engineering Unit. 3) Upon completion of the road.
stormwater runoff to appropriate outlets to
proposed retention basins.
Hydrology and Water Quality—(continued)
XV-12 Prepare the perimeter service road and Include requirements for fences 1) Review construction specifications; REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of fence
security fence first during construction to in construction contract. verify incorporation of fence construction subcontract.
minimize off-road travel, rainy season soil requirements;add to administrative
disturbance, and related erosion. record. 2) Upon completion of the perimeter
security fence.
2) Inspect construction site security fence
to verify compliance with fence
requirements.
2-5
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TABLE 1 (continued)
CENTRAL SAN SOLAR PANEL ARRAY PROJECT
4451 BLUM ROAD IN UNINCORPORATED MARTINEZ
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Measure Mitigation Measure Implementation Procedure Monitoring and Reporting Actions Monitoring Monitoring Schedule
Number Responsibility
XV-13 Revegetate with ground cover as soon as Requirements for revegetation will 1) Review construction contract;add to REC/Duke 1) Prior to the approval of
possible after finishing racking and installation of be included in construction contract administrative record. revegetation subcontract.
panels. and construction documents.
2) Periodically inspect construction site; 2) Periodically after grading for the
verify compliance with the revegetation driveway, perimeter service road,
plan. and retention basins.
Subsequently,monthly,after
3) Add telephone memos,and/or
erection of ground mounts and
correspondence to administrative racking.
record.
NOTES:
2-6
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ATTACHMENT 3
COMMENTS AND RESPONSES TO COMMENTS
At the time this position paper was prepared, no comment letters on the proposed
Mitigated Negative Declaration had been received. The deadline for receiving
comments is August 13, 2021. Any comment letters and Central San's responses will
be presented here.
3-1
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Page 13 of 21
ATTACHMENT 4
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND
MITIGATION, MONITORING AND PROGRAM AND APPROVING THE SOLAR
ARRAY PROJECT ON CENTRAL SAN'S LAGISS PROPERTY
WHEREAS, for the purposes of California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review,
the project upon which this determination is made is described as follows:
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District (Central San) proposes construction and
operation of a 1.75 megawatt solar panel array on approximately 8.2 acres of a 48-
acre parcel at 4451 Blum Road in unincorporated Martinez (APN 159-140-042-7).
The parcel is already owned by Central San and is referred to as the "Lagiss parcel."
The proposed solar panel array would be accessed from the northern end of Blum
Road via extension of an existing private driveway. The proposed solar panel array
would be encircled by a service road and perimeter fence. The existing surface area
to be covered by the proposed ground-mounted solar panel modules is
approximately 2.5 acres. Combined, solar panel modules together with the service
road and driveway, the area covered is approximately 4.0 acres of the 8.2 acres.
The remainder (4.2 acres) is generally retention basins or aisle space between rows
of panels, with only minor area being used for inverters; panelboards; main
photovoltaic (PV) switchboard; step-down, pad-mounted transformer; and intertie
switchgear.
WHEREAS, an Initial Study has been conducted by the Central San; and
WHEREAS, Central San staff concludes that the Initial Study adequately, accurately,
and objectively evaluated the proposed effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, adequate public notice was given to receive comments on the proposed
project; and
WHEREAS, the Central San Board of Directors has reviewed the results of the Initial
Study, considered comments received, and determined that the project, as mitigated,
will not have a significant effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Central San Board of Directors finds that the Mitigated Negative
Declaration and its Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program reflects its
independent judgment of the environmental effects of the proposed project; and
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Board of Directors of the Central Contra
Costa Sanitary District does hereby adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration and
Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Solar Panel Array Project. The Secretary of the
Board of Directors will be custodian of the document and other materials that constitute
the record of proceedings for the adoption of this Mitigated Negative Declaration. The
record of proceedings will be maintained at the District offices, 5019 Imhoff Place,
Martinez, California.
August 16, 2021 REEP Committee Meeting Agenda Packet- Page 40 of 69
Page 14 of 21
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District
Resolution No 2021-
Page 2 of 2
FURTHERMORE, be it resolved that the Board of Directors of the Central Contra
Costa Sanitary District does hereby approve the Solar Panel Array Project.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of September 2021, by the Board of Directors
of the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District by the following vote:
AYES: Members:
NOES: Members:
ABSENT: Members:
Tad J. Pilecki
President of the Board of Directors
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District
County of Contra Costa, State of California
COUNTERSIGNED:
Katie Young
Secretary of the District
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District
County of Contra Costa, State of California
Approved as to form:
Kenton L. Alm
Counsel for the District
August 16, 2021 REEP Committee Meeting Agenda Packet- Page 41 of 69
Page 15 of 21
ATTACHMENT 5
Ij+�
CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING ON
CENTRAL SAN'S SOLAR ARRAY PROJECT
Melody LaBella, P.E.
Resource Recovery Program Manager
Russ Leavitt
Engineering Assistant III
Real Estate, Environmental and Planning
Committee Meeting
August 16 2021
PRESENTATION OVERVIEW
Solar Project Initiation and Design
Solar Project Description
Environmental Review Process
Public Outreach
Change Order and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
Amendment
Updated Financials
Amendment to ARC Alternatives' As-Needed Agreement
Iz
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Page 16 of 21
SOLAR PROJECT INITIATION AND DESIGN
• August 2019: Solar Feasibility Study �
LCENT
June 2020: Request for ProposalsPRWECT
SfTE
. .
(RFP) released for a Solar Project PPA
November 5, 2020: Board of Directors
(Board) awarded a PPA to REC Solar
Commercial Corporation (REC Solar), -„ •
also known as Duke Energy, for a solar
photovoltaic system on Central San's
Lagiss property
Spring 2021 : Solar Panel Array Project
design sufficient to begin environmental
evaluation
3
SOLAR PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A proposed 1 .75 megawatt solar photovoltaic facility located on
8.2 acres of the Central San-owned, 48 acre "Lagiss parcel" at
4451 Blum Road in unincorporated Martinez
More than 2,500 fixed position, ground-mounted solar panel
modules, encircled by a service road and perimeter fence,
comprising a total of about 4 acres
Remaining 4.2 acres are rainwater runoff retention basins or aisle
space between rows of panels, as well as associated electrical
equipment, and the connection to PG&E on Blum Road
Panels are intended to not be visible from the residential portions
of Blum Road
CFNTPAISAN
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August 16, 2021 REEP Committee Meeting Agenda Packet- Page 43 of 69 2
Page 17 of 21
L Proposed Solar Project
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ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS
July 13, 2021 : Staff released Initial Study and Draft Mitigated
Negative Declaration (MND) stating that implementing the
project will have "no significant environmental impacts"
— July 13 to August 13, 2021 : MND public review period
— August 13, 2021 : Deadline for comment letters (none
received to date)
September 2, 2021 : Board to conduct public hearing and
consider approval of the MND, the Mitigation Monitoring and
Reporting Program, and the Project
CFNTPAISAN
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Page 18 of 21
PUBLIC OUTREACH
Letters were mailed to the Blum Road neighborhood
concurrent with the issuance of the RFP and the MND.
The Notice of Intent to Adopt a MND was mailed to local,
State and Federal agencies and published as a legal notice in
local newspapers.
Communications staff created project webpages on Central
San's website, www.centralsan.org/solar,solar, where notices and
the MND have been posted.
There have been no community concerns expressed about
the project at this time.
1
CHANGE ORDER AND PPA AMENDMENT NO. 1
Due to additional construction costs resulting from the design
process, REC Solar has submitted a change order request to
raise the price of solar power from $0.0866 to $0.10 per
kilowatt hour.
After careful evaluation by Central San's staff and solar
consultant, staff is recommending approval.
This rate adjustment and changes to the design and schedule
result in a need to update a number of sections in our PPA,
which will be addressed in Amendment No. 1 . These changes
include: early termination fees, purchase option values,
milestones, schedule, layout, annual production values, etc. 1 8
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Page 19 of 21
UPDATED FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
Annual Net Benefit(Savings)
"Ec-A' RFC-m.n9 REC Annual Net Benefit
F4P01-di C`KW I
TN! FV.lu.ted S1W.OW
0 $o $o
1 $96,234 $0.555
2 $107,660 $80,776
3 $119.324 $93.234
4 5131.234 $105.949 iem,000
5 $143.394 $118.929
6 $155.823 1132,178
7 $168.496 $145,70fi Stw.mo
e 5181,449 5359,5i9
9 5194.681 $1731624 534.,E
10 5208,198 $188,029
11 SM008 5202,741
12 5236.117 5217,769 Szw-
13 $250,$95 $233,120
14 5265,267 $248,801 Szaa 000
15 5280,324 $2641826
16 $Z95,722 $28111"
17 5311,440 $297,929 3]54.4W
18 $327,528 $315.026
19 $343,953 $332,500 S1c0.am
20 5360,755 $350.359
21 $377.933 $368.625
22 $395.497 $38.2276 SSgaaO
23 5413AS7 5406.354
24 5431.823 542SASS
25 $450,604 $445.800
0 1 I 2 4 5 6 1 ! 9 9] 11 23 11 LI iS 16 I) 11 19 10 21 ZT 21 14 >S
ian7 56A69A26 $6.w4W3 —.Ec-ws 9ro9a4NFwbtM —sec-wnwn9N1 '
NPV 68.116,833 53,787,951 g
CENTRAISAN
AMENDMENT TO ARC ALTERNATIVES AS-NEEDED
CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT
In April 2019, staff hired ARC Alternatives (ARC), after an
informal selection process, under an initial $29,600, as-needed,
professional consulting services contract.
After exemplary performance, staff has continued to add scope
and budget to ARC's as-needed contract.
As ARC's contract is reaching the limit of the General Manager's
authority, staff is seeking the Board's authorization for the
General Manager to raise the cost ceiling of ARC's existing as-
needed consulting agreement from $179,600 to $229,600.
�o
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Page 20 of 21
REEP COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Real Estate, Environmental and
Planning Committee reviewed this matter
at its August 16, 2021 , meeting and ���
recommended that the Board ���
CENTRALSAN
RECOMMENDED BOARD ACTIONS
Conduct a public hearing on the Mitigated Negative Declaration.
Barring any irresolvable public comments to the contrary, approve
the proposed resolution adopting the Mitigated Negative
Declaration and Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program, and
approving the proposed Solar Panel Array Project on Central San's
Lagiss property;
Authorize the General Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to
Central San's Power Purchase Agreement with REC Solar; and
Authorize the General Manager to amend an existing as-needed
professional consulting services agreement with ARC Alternatives,
increasing the cost ceiling from $179,600 to $229,600.
12
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Page 21 of 21
QUESTIONS?
CENTRALSAW
August 16, 2021 REEP Committee Meeting Agenda Packet- Page 48 of 69