HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-08-26 RPEC Special Meeting Agenda Packet
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
MEETING AGENDA
Monday, August 26, 2024
3:00 p.m.
Administrative Conference Room, City Hall
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting will be conducted as a hybrid meeting and there will be
in-person access to this location.
To participate via Zoom, use the following link: https://palmdesert.zoom.us/j/89664855295 or
call (213) 338-8477, Zoom Meeting ID: 896 6485 5295
•
Written public comment may also be submitted to cityclerk@palmdesert.gov. E-mails
received by 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting will be distributed to the Committee. Any
correspondence received during or after the meeting will be distributed to the Committee as
soon as practicable and retained for the official record. Emails will not be read aloud except
as an ADA accommodation.
•
Pages
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
3.ELECTION OF THE RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON AND VICE-CHAIRPERSON
4.NONAGENDA PUBLIC COMMENTS
This time has been set aside for the public to address the Resource
Preservation and Enhancement Committee on issues that are not on the
agenda for up to three minutes. Speakers may utilize one of the three options
listed on the first page of the agenda. Because the Brown Act does not allow the
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee to act on items not listed
on the agenda, members may briefly respond or refer the matter to staff for a
report and recommendation at a future meeting.
5.CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and may be
approved by one motion. The public may comment on any items on the Consent
Agenda within the three-minute time limit. Individual items may be removed by
the Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee for a separate
discussion.
RECOMMENDATION:
To approve the consent calendar as presented.
5.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Minutes of June 17, 2024.
6.CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
7.ACTION CALENDAR
The public may comment on individual Action Items within the three-minute time
limit. Speakers may utilize one of the three options listed on the first page of the
agenda.
7.a CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ARTIFICIAL
TURF/SYNTHETIC GRASS ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
9
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend that City Council adopt a resolution approving the
Administrative Policy to prohibit the use of artificial turf/synthetic grass in
public rights-of-way.
7.b RECEIVE AND FILE PRESENTATION ON THE INLAND REGIONAL
ENEGRY NETWORK (I-REN)
17
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file presentation on the Inland Regional Energy Network (I-
REN)
7.c RECEIVE AND FILE UPDATE ON COMPREHENSIVE CLIMATE ACTION
PLAN (CCAP)
27
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file update on Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP).
7.d RECEIVE AND FILE UPDATE ON THE RESOURCE PRESERVATION
AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE’S 2024/2025 WORKPLAN
31
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file update on the Resource Preservation and Enhancement
Committee’s 2024/2025 Workplan.
8.INFORMATIONAL REPORTS & COMMENTS
8.a RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
MEMBERS
8.b CITY COUNCIL LIAISON
8.c CITY STAFF
2
8.c.1 RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
(RPEC) PROJECT/PROGRAM STATUS REPORT FOR AUGUST 2024
33
8.d ATTENDANCE REPORT 35
9.ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting will be held on October 21, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.
10.PUBLIC NOTICES
Agenda Related Materials: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5(b)(2) the
designated office for inspection of records in connection with this meeting is the
Office of the City Clerk, Palm Desert Civic Center, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive,
Palm Desert. Staff reports for all agenda items considered in open session, and
documents provided to a majority of the legislative bodies are available for
public inspection at City Hall and on the City’s website at www.palmdesert.gov.
Americans with Disabilities Act: It is the intention of the City of Palm Desert to
comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an
attendee or a participant at this meeting, or in meetings on a regular basis, you
will need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, the City will
attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact the
Office of the City Clerk, (760) 346-0611, at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to
inform us of your needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California
that the foregoing agenda for the Resource Preservation and Enhancement
Committee was posted on the City Hall bulletin board and City website not less
than 72 hours prior to the meeting.
/S/ Michelle Nance
Deputy Clerk II
3
4
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
1
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
June 17, 2024, 3:00 p.m.
Present: Vice Chair Berlinda Blackburn, Committee Member Geoffrey
Gregory, Committee Member Vincent Heuring, Committee
Member Stephen Nelson, Chair Dean Gatons
Staff Present: Deputy Director of Economic Development Amy Lawrence,
Recording Secretary Michelle Nance
Liaison(s) Present: City Council Liaison, Jan Harnik
1.CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee was called
to order by Chair Gatons on June 17, 2024, at 3:01 p.m. in the Administrative Conference
Room, City Hall, located at 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California.
2.ROLL CALL
3.NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
4.CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by: Vice Chair Blackburn
Seconded by: Committee Member Nelson
To approve the consent calendar as presented.
Motion Carried (5 to 0)
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approve the Minutes of April 15, 2024.
5.CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None.
5
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
2
6.ACTION CALENDAR
6.a RECEIVE AND FILE PRESENTATION UPDATE ON RESOURCE PRESERVATION
AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE 2024/2025 WORK PLAN
Deputy Director of Economic Development Lawrence provided the staff report and
answered member inquiries.
Motion by: Committee Member Heuring
Seconded by: Committee Member Gregory
Receive and file update on Resources Preservation and Enhancement Committee
2024/2025 Work Plan.
Motion Carried (5 to 0)
7.INFORMATIONAL REPORTS & COMMENTS
7.a RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS
During the course of discussions, individual Committee member(s) offered
commentary as
follows:
•Requested update on street sweeping schedule;
•Requested updated on red curb painting due to fading;
•Request for update on Southern California Edison (SCE) presentation;
•Need for transportation for workforce housing developments in the north
sphere Palm Desert; and
•Potential State ban of reusable grocery bags.
7.b CITY COUNCIL LIAISON
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik spoke on recent City Council approvals and use of grant
funds as related to the Committee.
7.c CITY STAFF
7.c.1 RECEIVE AND FILE PRESENTATION ON WALK AND ROLL PD PHASE 3
Senior Project Manager Leyva provided a presentation and answered
member inquiries. No formal action taken on this item.
7.d ATTENDANCE REPORT
Report provided; no action taken on this item.
8.ADJOURNMENT
The Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee adjourned at 3:53 p.m.
City of Palm Desert Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 17, 2024
6
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
3
9.PUBLIC NOTICES
_________________________
Michelle Nance, Deputy Clerk II
Recording Secretary
_________________________
Amy Lawrence, Deputy Director of Economic Development
Secretary
_________________________
DATE APPROVED BY RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
City of Palm Desert Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 17, 2024
7
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
8
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Page 1 of 2
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 26, 2024
PREPARED BY: Julia Breyer, Management Analyst
SUBJECT: CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ARTIFICIAL
TURF/SYNTHETIC GRASS ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend that City Council adopt a resolution approving the Administrative Policy to prohibit
the use of artificial turf/synthetic grass in public right s-of-way.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On December 14, 2023, the City Council received a study session presentation regarding the
use of artificial turf/synthetic grass. City Council discussed concerns regarding artificial
turf/synthetic grass at that meeting and directed staff to complete and conduct research and
return to a future meeting with a policy.
In 2016, Senate Bill 676 (SB 676) was adopted and encouraged the transition of landscaping
alternatives that use less water, such as artificial turf/synthetic grass. In October 2023, SB 676
was amended and approved by the Governor citing that artificial turf/synthetic grass is no longer
an acceptable form of drought-tolerant landscaping. Significant environmental problems have
been noted with these installations, including water and soil pollution from synthetic grass and
artificial turf debris, increased stormwater runoff from insufficient ground percolation, and a lack
of recyclability. Pursuant to Government Code section 53087.7, cities cannot prohibit the
installation of artificial turf/synthetic grass on residential property.
Section 1 53087.7
(a) A city, including a charter city, county, or city and county, shall not enact any ordinance
or regulation, or enforce any existing ordinance or regulation, that prohibits the installation
of drought-tolerant landscaping using living plant material on residential property.
(b) For the purposes of this section, “drought-tolerant landscaping” shall not include the
installation of artificial turf/synthetic grass.
Following the feedback from the City Council and additional research, City staff developed an
Artificial Turf/Synthetic Grass administrative policy. The policy outlines that the City will no longer
utilize artificial turf/synthetic grass in public rights-of-way including medians, parkways,
landscaped areas around public facilities, and city parks. Artificial turf/synthetic grass serves as
a barrier that limits the absorption of ground water, resulting in pooling and greater runoff during
storm events. Artificial turf/synthetic grass products may contain plastics, nylon and crumb
rubber materials that wear down over time, potentially leaching into the surrounding environment
and causing damage to the City's ecosystem and watershed.
9
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
City of Palm Desert
Recommend City Council to Approve Administrative Policy
Page 2 of 2
Artificial turf/synthetic grass is not recyclable, and therefore, may contribute to plastic pollution
and plastic in landfills. Biodiverse landscapes containing native plants and vegetation help
communities by strengthening the local ecosystems and building climate resilience.
The administrative policy reinforces the City’s commitment to water conservation goals in
addition to the preservation of the environment, therefore, City staff recommends the City
Council adopt the resolution to approve the policy.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with the adoption of the resolution and approval of the
policy.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution
a. Exhibit A, Administrative Policy (XXX-001)
10
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
RESOLUTION NO. ______
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF
ARTIFICAL TURF/SYNTHETIC GRASS IN PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY
WHEREAS, California Constitution Article XI, Section 7, enable the City of Palm Desert
(the “City”) to enact local planning and land use regulations; and
WHEREAS, the City currently does not regulate the design, installation or use of artificial
turf/synthetic grass within the City; and
WHEREAS, it is known to the City that certain types of artificial grass /synthetic turf create
impenetrable barriers that may prohibit or severely limit the absorption of ground w ater, and
contribute to the risk of overwhelming the capacity of the City’s stormwater drainage system; and
WHEREAS, numerous studies indicate that artificial turf /synthetic grass can have a negative
effect on the environment and pose certain health haz ards such as creating “heat islands”,
decreasing biodiversity, creating impenetrable barriers for ground water, releasing toxic chemicals,
including those that are known to cause cancer, and creating burden on local landfills as non -
biodegradable materials; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to ensure its residents are adequately protected from the health
and safety impacts that unregulated artificial turf /synthetic grass may pose to the City;
WHEREAS, the City desires to formalize a policy to prohibit the use of artificial turf/synthetic grass
in public rights of way; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has been presented with a policy in the form attached to this
Resolution as “Administrative Policy XXX -001” and by this reference incorporated herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert,
California, as follows:
SECTION 1. The foregoing Recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by
this reference.
SECTION 2. The City Manager is he reby authorized to establish and periodically
review and update Administrative Policy XXX -001.
SECTION 3. The attached Administrative Policy XXX -001 shall be added to the City’s
Administrative Procedures.
11
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resolution No. 2024-______ Page 2
ADOPTED ON SEPTEMBER 26, 2024.
___________________________
KARINA QUINTANILLA
MAYOR
ATTEST:
___________________________________
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
12
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resolution No. 2024-______ Page 3
I, Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, hereby certify that Resolution No. 2024-
______ is a full, true, and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of Palm Desert on _______________________, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunt o set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of
Palm Desert, California, on ___________________.
_______________________
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
13
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
14
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
CITY OF PALM DESERT
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Subject Prohibit the Use of Artificial Turf/Synthetic
Grass in Public Rights-of-Way
Policy No. XXXX
Council
Approval: September 26, 2024
I. INTRODUCTION
In December 2016, Legislature enacted Senate Bill (SB) 676 prohibiting local jurisdictions
from enacting or enforcing any regulations that prohibit the installation of drought -tolerant
landscaping, synthetic grass, or artificial turf on residential property. In accordance with
Government Code Section 53087.7, the City has the authority to enact reasonable
restrictions on the type of artificial turf/synthetic grass that may be installed and the design
of its installation.
II. PURPOSE
The purpose is to protect and enhance the health, safety and general welfare of the City
in addition to protecting the water usage and water quality to be consistent with the state
and federal regulations and permits, including the Clean Water Act.
A. Eliminating the discharge of debris from artificial turf/synthetic grass products,
such as plastic blades, crumb rubber, nylon and other synthetic components,
into stormwater runoff;
B. Improve the absorption and retention of storm water through the use of natural
drought-tolerant landscaping using living plant material;
C. Eliminating solid waste generated by the disposal of synthetic grass and
artificial turf products;
D. Improving public health and safety by removing exposure to potential
environmental carcinogens found in artificial turf/synthetic grass products.
III. DEFINITIONS
A. “Artificial Turf” and “Synthetic Grass” is artificial or synthetic non-organic
material that simulates the appearance of organic sod, grass, or lawn ground
cover, and includes outdoor plastic carpeting. Artificial turf/synthetic grass does not
include painted natural organic grass or sod.
IV. GENERAL POLICY
The use and installation of artificial turf and synthetic grass landscaping material is
prohibited in City public rights-of-way. This includes but is not limited to medians,
parkways, landscaped areas around public facilities, and city parks. This policy does not
15
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
prohibit the use of artificial turf /synthetic grass for residential and private properties. The
City may modify the policy from time to time as it may deem necessary or as required by
law.
16
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Page 1 of 1
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 26, 2024
PREPARED BY: Amy Lawrence, Deputy Director of Economic Development
SUBJECT: RECEIVE AND FILE PRESENTATION ON THE INLAND REGIONAL
ENEGRY NETWORK (I-REN)
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file presentation on the Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN)
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
Program Manager, Jacob Alvarez with the Coachella Valley Association of Government’s
(CVAG) Energy and Sustainably Department will provide a presentation on the Inland Regional
Energy Network (I-REN).
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with this request.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. I-REN Presentation
17
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
18
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Inland Regional Energy Network
August 26, 2024
19
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Who We Are
The Coachella Valley Association of Governments, San Bernardino Council of Governments,
and Western Riverside Council of Governments have partnered to develop I-REN to serve the cities
and communities of our region.
20
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Our Programs
Public Sector
Program
Workforce Education &
Training Program
Codes & Standards Program
21
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Our Programs
Public Sector Program
Energy Usage Review -We review your utility data and
share insights
Energy Resilience Roadmap -We help you develop a
plan to make lasting energy impacts
Energy Audits -Our team identifies energy improvement
projects for your facilities
Funding and Financing Support -We will help you
secure incentives and financing
Project Completion -We help you with project
coordination support
Celebrate Success -We’ll spread the word about your
leadership and achievements
22
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Our Programs
Codes & Standards Program
Support local jurisdictions’ building
departments.
Engage and support local builders and the
building industry to comply with energy
codes.
Provide regional tools, training, and
resources to promote energy codes.
23
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Our Programs
Workforce Education & Training Program
Training & Education
•Establish local partnerships
•Assess the training resources currently available
•Support providers to “train the trainer” on energy efficiency
topics and trends
Workforce Development
•Connect with local companies to develop appropriate job
pathways.
•Help job seekers find employment in energy efficiency and
advanced energy.
24
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
QUESTIONS?
Visit iren.gov to learn more
Benjamin Druyon
Program Manager
WRCOG
bdruyon@wrcog.us
Casey Dailey
Director of Energy &
Environmental Programs
WRCOG
cdailey@wrcog.us
Tyler Masters
Program Manager
WRCOG
tmasters@wrcog.us
Jacob Alvarez
Program Manager
CVAG
jalvarez@cvag.org
Cheryl Chesnut
Program Manager
SBCOG
cchesnut@gosbcta.com
25
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
26
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Page 1 of 3
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 26, 2024
PREPARED BY: Amy Lawrence, Deputy Director of Economic Development
SUBJECT: RECEIVE AND FILE UPDATE ON COMPREHENSIVE CLIMATE ACTION
PLAN (CCAP)
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file update on Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP).
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
One of the Resources Preservation and Enhancement Committee’s (RPEC) projects outlined in
the formal 2024/2025 workplan that was adopted earlier this year includes development of a
climate action plan. This year, the City was awarded $118,000 in Energy Eff iciency and
Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to hire
a consultant to complete this task. Staff intended to inform the City Council of the grant award
and seek approval to proceed with the project at the July 11, City Council meeting.
In late June, staff was informed by the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG)
that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded a Climate Pollution Reduction
Grant (CPRG) to the Riverside-San Bernardino -Ontario Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)
which consists of the San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG), Western Riverside
Council of Governments (WRCOG), and CVAG. SBCOG is the contracting agency and hired the
consultant services of ICF to complete the deliverables associated with this grant which includes
completion of a Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP) and a Comprehensive Climate Action Plan
(CCAP). The PCAP was completed for Riverside-San Bernardino -Ontario MSA in March 2024,
and now the focus is on completion of the CCAP for the CVAG region, which is due summer/fall
2025. To view the completed PCAP, click here.
To develop the CCAP, ICF will be working with all jurisdictions in the CVAG region to gather
data and information to complete individual plans which will serve as subchapters in the regional
CCAP. According to ICF, the plan will include the following:
2023 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory for the region and each jurisdiction in CVAG.
Forecast of GHG emissions to 2030 and 2045.
GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045.
GHG reduction measures for each jurisdiction in CVAG building on current climate action
planning as appropriate.
Analysis of overall benefits as well as benefits to low income and disadvantaged
communities.
A workforce planning analysis.
27
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
City of Palm Desert
Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP) Update
Page 2 of 3
A review of authority to implement reduction measures.
A plan to leverage other federal funding (other than CPRG).
Engagement with our communities concerning priorities for reduction measures.
Per the CPRG grant program requirements, the CCAP must include the following:
Comprehensive GHG Inventory
Include all GHG emissions and sinks by category for six key sectors: electricity
generation; industry; transportation; buildings; agriculture/natural and working lands; and
waste management
Quantified GHG Reduction Measures
Full suite of measures from the GHG emission sectors to meet the GHG reduction targets.
Review of Authority to Implement
Indicate the existing statutory and regulatory authority to implement measures. Schedule
of milestones for action needed by key entities for obtaining the authority needed to
implement measures.
GHG Emissions Projections
Near-term (e.g., 2030-2035) and long-term (e.g., 2050) projections, including a "business-
as-usual" scenario and a scenario where the CCAP is fully implemented.
Benefits Analysis
Quantified estimates of co-pollutant reductions (e.g., PM2.5, NOx, SO2, VOCs, air toxics,
etc.). Track, minimize, and mitigate any potential disbenefits from the GHG reduction
measures.
Intersection of Other Funding
Identify what funding programs are available or have been secured to pursue CCAP
objectives.
GHG Reduction Targets
Economy-wide near-term and long-term reduction targets set by each jurisdiction,
consistent with US commitments to reduce emissions 50 -52% relative to 2005 levels by
2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
LIDAC Benefits Analysis
Evaluate the extent to which GHG reduction measures will deliver co- pollutant emissions
reductions and other benefits to LIDACs.
Workforce Planning Analysis
Analysis of anticipated workforce shortages that could prevent achieving the CCAP goals
and identify solutions and partners that are equipped to help address those challenges.
28
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
City of Palm Desert
Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP) Update
Page 3 of 3
Staff started working with ICF to provide the utility data required for the GHG inventory. Next
steps for ICF include identifying, developing, and selecting GHG reduction measures which
entails the following:
Review existing plans and previous climate action planning efforts
Complete sector-specific analysis
Community and stakeholder engagement
Identify potential measures
Prioritization and selection
Staff will ensure that RPEC and the community are involved with development of the CCAP. ICF
has developed an 8-minute online GHG Emissions Community Survey in both English and
Spanish that can be posted on the City’s website, shared via social media, and sent via email.
Staff may also schedule meetings with various stakeholders to gather additional input. Any
stakeholder engagement planned will be forwarded to members. Further, to ensure RPEC’s
involvement, staff may call special meetings for RPEC’s input or review of the CCAP, if needed.
It is staff’s intention for RPEC to provide input throughout the process and comment on the draft
plan before it is finalized.
Once CVAG’s CCAP is completed, which is anticipated in Q2 2025, the City will have a current
GHG inventory and its own climate action plan, which will m ake us eligible grant funding we
otherwise would not qualify for. At that time the City can either:
1. Adopt the plan as is and strategize implementation at a staff level by identifying more
specific measurables; or
2. Utilize the plan to work with a consultant to develop a more comprehensive plan.
For reference, ICF led a similar multi-jurisdictional plan for the San Bernardino Council of
Governments (SBCOG) that was completed in 2021. The link to the San Bernardino County
Regional Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan can be found here.
As for the $118,000 in EECBG funding that was awarded to the City by the DOE to hire a
consultant for development of a climate action plan, staff will be meeting with representatives
from the DOE in the coming weeks to discuss reallocation of funds to a different project. There
are several projects that we can use the funding for; however, many require t hat we already
have a climate action plan in place. It is possible that the DOE will allow us to reallocate funding
to a project that will be included in the regional plan which may coincide with the end of the grant
term in September 2025. An update on this will be provided at the October RPEC meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with this request.
29
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
30
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Page 1 of 2
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 26, 2024
PREPARED BY: Amy Lawrence, Deputy Director of Economic Development
SUBJECT: RECEIVE AND FILE UPDATE ON THE RESOURCE PRESERVATION
AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE’S 2024/2025 WORKPLAN
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file update on the Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee’s
2024/2025 Workplan.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
Below is an update on the three projects outlined in the Resource Preservation and
Enhancement Committee’s 2024/2025 Workplan that was adopted by the City Council on May
9, 2024.
Develop a Climate Action Plan – At the August RPEC meeting, staff is presenting information
on the Coachella Valley Association of Government’s (CVAG) Comprehensive Climate Action
Plan (CCAP) that the City will be a beneficiary of. Staff recommends that consideration be given
to this plan once complete to determine best course of action.
Adoption of Ordinances and/or Policies related to Water and/or Energy Conservation –
Staff is working on the following:
Gathered a list of City facilities and other data for the Inland Regional Energy Network (I-
REN) to complete an energy analysis (Energy Resilience Roadmap) for energy efficiency
projects. Once the document is complete, staff will bring it forward for the Committee’s
review. A presentation on I-REN will be made during the August RPEC meeting.
Artificial Turf Policy will be reviewed during the August RPEC meeting.
In June, we met with staff at the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) to discuss water
conservation efforts and to inform that we would be looking to adopt relevant policies.
Education and Outreach for Water and Energy Conservation and Sustainable
Landscaping – Staff is working on the following:
In June, we met with staff at the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) in June to
discuss water conservation education and outreach, partnership opportunities, and
rebates.
Public Art staff released a Call for Artists to wrap a park bench with art in conjunction with
the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge. Click here for more information.
Continuing research for other education and outreach opportunities such as the Mayor’s
Challenge for Water Conservation and the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge.
31
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
City of Palm Desert
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee’s 2024/2025 Workplan Update
Page 2 of 2
Promotion of utility rebates, community partnerships, useful tips, etc. will continue through
the duration of the workplan. We included information in the BrightSide Newsletter entitled
“Tips and Tricks to Save Energy This Summer”. Below is a report of social media outreach
efforts from April-July 2024:
o Total of 15 Facebook posts from April to July. The three most successful posts were
all in April. Staff will strategize with our Public Affairs team on improving reach and
engagement.
General rebate information for SCE/IID/SoCal Gas – 979, Engagement of
29 and 21 clicks.
Appliance rebates from IID – 747, but Engagement of 37 and 29 clicks
General info for SCE/IID/SoCal Gas – 842, Engagements at 49 and 38
clicks
CVWD Smart Irrigation – 887 Reach, 20 Engagements, 7 click
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee’s 2024/2025 Workplan
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with this request.
Project Description Cost Time/Process
Develop a
Climate
Action Plan
Hire a consultant to
develop a formal
climate action plan.
Staff time and
est. *$118K in
grant funds -
*amount included
in proposed FY
24/25 budget
Estimated 12 months including City Council
approval to proceed, posting RFP, award of
contract, community engagement, RPEC
review throughout process, to City Council
approval of plan.
Adoption of
Ordinances
and/or
Policies
Propose at least one
ordinance/policy
related to water and/or
energy conservation.
Staff time Staff will work with RPEC to develop new
ordinances and/or policies for City Council
consideration. The first one estimated to be
taken forward by the end of Q4 2024.
Education
and
Outreach
Conduct education and
outreach for water and
energy conservation
and sustainable
landscaping.
Staff time Staff will draft a comprehensive education and
outreach plan for RPEC to adopt including
promotion of utility rebates, community
partnerships, useful tips, etc. via the City’s
website, BrightSide newsletter, social media,
and other means. Staff will also continue
participating in the Mayor’s Challenge for
Water Conservation, Mayor’s Monarch
Pledge, and look at other relevant initiatives.
32
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Page 1 of 1
RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 26, 2024
PREPARED BY: Amy Lawrence, Deputy Director of Economic Development
SUBJECT: RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
PROJECT/PROGRAM STATUS REPORT FOR AUGUST 2024
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
Below is status on ongoing projects/programs and follow-ups from previous meetings:
1. Environmental Initiative Plan Q2 2024 Report - The Environmental Initiatives Plan Q2
2024 report is available for public view on the Engage Palm Desert Environmental
Initiatives Plan project page or visit www.engagepalmdesert.com for more information.
2. Palm Desert Street Sweeping Schedule – An interactive map of the City of Palm
Desert’s and the Coachella Valley Association of Government’s street sweeping
scheduled has been placed on the City’s website and can be accessed here.
3. Follow -up from SunLine Transit Agency – SunLine CEO Mona Babauta indicated that
“regarding service on Gerald Ford, at this point in time, we don’t have any plans for
expansion along that corridor, but we will continue to monitor any increasing need/interest
as additional resources become available. There were some questions about expanded
service to/from Rancho Mirage High School and service to/from Blythe. At this point in
time, we don’t have plans for such expansion because of very low to no ridership demand
primarily. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to discuss further with
Paul Mattern, Chief Planning Officer. He and his team will be leading a comprehensive
operational analysis in the coming months, which will involve reopening our system
design and improving service based on ridership demand & community needs. This
process would be good to discuss with the RPEC at some point.”
Staff will work on scheduling a presentation from SunLine for RPEC in 2025.
4. Southern California Edison (SCE) Presentation – SCE is scheduled to give a
presentation to RPEC at the October meeting.
33
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
34
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting
Resource Preservation Enhancement Committee
Year 2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023 2023
Month Jun Apr Feb Dec Oct Aug Jun
Day 17 15 26 18 16 21 19
Blackburn, Berlinda P P P E - -E 0 2
Dahl, Estelle
Gatons, Dean P P P P - -P 0 0
Gregory, Geoff P P P P - -0 0
Gomez, Gustavo E E P E - -0 2
Heuring, Vincent P P P P - -P 0 0
Mason, Melinda P P P P - -P 0 0
Nelson, Stephen P P A P --P 1 0
Zeigler, Donald P P A P --P
P
P
A
E
-
Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.34.010
Bimonthly: Two unexcused absences from regular meeting in any twelve-month period shall constitute an automatic resignation
of members holding office on boards that meet bimonthly.
Please contact the Recording Secretary to discuss any attendance concerns.
Total Absences
Unexcused Excused
35
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee Meeting