HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-02-08 SSC Agenda PacketV.03
REGULAR MEETING OF THE SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
Meeting date February 1, 2021 VIA TELECONFERENCE
5:00 pm Conference Room C-101 Building A
276 Fourth Ave
Chula Vista
PLEASE NOTE THAT, PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA'S
EXECUTIVE ORDER N-29-20, AND IN THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY,
MEMBERS OF THE SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION AND STAFF MAY PARTICIPATE IN
THIS MEETING VIA TELECONFERENCE. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE EXECUTIVE ORDER,
THE PUBLIC MAY VIEW THE MEETING ONLINE AND NOT IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM C-
101 IN BUILDING A AT CITY HALL.
HOW TO WATCH: Members of the public can access a link to the livestream at
www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings. Members of the public who wish to join by
telephone only, may call 1-408-418-9388 (United States Toll) and enter the access code: 146
807 6596.
HOW TO SUBMIT COMMENTS: Visit the online eComment portal for this meeting at:
www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings. The commenting period will be open shortly after
the agenda is published for a particular meeting and will remain open through the meeting,
as described below. All comments will be available to the public and the Sustainability
Commission using the eComment portal. Comments must be received prior to the time the
Chair calls for the close of the commenting period. Comments received after such time will
not be considered by the Sustainability Commission. If you have difficulty or are unable to
submit a comment, please contact the Economic Development Department for assistance at
mmedrano@chulavistaca.gov.
ACCESSIBILITY: Individuals with disabilities are invited to request reasonable modifications
or accommodations in order to access and/or participate in a Sustainability Commission
meeting by contacting the Economic Development Department at
mmedrano@chulavistaca.gov (California Relay Service is available for the hearing impaired
by dialing 711) at least forty-eight hours in advance of the meeting.
***The City of Chula Vista is relying on commercial technology to livestream and accept
public comments via Granicus, Inc. With the increase of virtual meetings, most platforms are
working to scale their systems to meet the new demand. If we have technical difficulties, we
City of Chula Vista Boards & Commissions
Sustainability Commission
Page 2 ׀ Sustainability Commission Agenda Meeting Date February 8, 2021
will resolve them as quickly as possible. City staff will take all possible measures to ensure a
publicly accessible experience. ***
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Baugh, Guevara-Gluyas, Korgan, Rodriguez, Richeson, Vice
Chair Legaspi and Chair Matthias
CONSENT CALENDAR
The Board/Commission will enact the Consent Calendar staff recommendations by one motion,
without discussion, unless a Board/Commission Member, a member of the public, or staff
requests that an item be removed for discussion. If you wish to comment on one of these items,
please submit comments electronically at: www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES of the meeting on January 11, 2021
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Persons may address the Board/Commission on any subject matter within the
Board/Commission’s jurisdiction that is not listed as an item on the agenda. State law
generally prohibits the Board/Commission from discussing or taking action on any issue not
included on the agenda, but, if appropriate, the Board/Commission may schedule the topic for
future discussion or refer the matter to staff. If you wish to comment, please submit comments
electronically at: www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings.
ACTION ITEMS
The Item(s) listed in this section of the agenda will be considered individually by the
Board/Commission and are expected to elicit discussion and deliberation. If you wish to
comment on one of these items, please submit comments electronically at:
http://www.chulavistaca.gov/virtualmeetings.
2. REVIEW CLIMATE CHANGE WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS AND
RECOMMEND CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL
Staff recommendation: Approve and recommend to City Council
OTHER BUSINESS
3. STAFF COMMENTS
4. CHAIR’S COMMENTS
5. COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT to the regular meeting on March 8, 2021 at 5 pm in the conference room C-
101 in building A at City Hall, Chula Vista, California.
Page 3 ׀ Sustainability Commission Agenda Meeting Date February 8, 2021
Materials provided to the Sustainability Commission related to any open-session item on this
agenda are available for public review at https://chulavista.granicusideas.com/meetings or by
contacting the Economic Development Department at mmedrano@chulavistaca.gov.
I declare under penalty of perjury that I am
employed by the City of Chula Vista in the
Economic Development department and that
I caused the document to be posted according
to Brown Act requirements.
Dated: 2/1/21 Signed: ______________
Page | 1 Sustainability Commission Minutes
MINUTES OF VIRTUAL REGULAR MEETING
OF THE SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
January 11, 2021 5:00 PM
A Virtual Regular Meeting of the Sustainability Commission of the City of Chula Vista via WebEx was
called to order by Chair Matthias at 5:04 pm.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commissioners JoEllen Baugh, Adriana Guevara-Gluyas, Vice Chair Edward Legaspi, Christos
Korgan, Chair Tina Matthias, John Richeson, and Angelica Rodriguez.
STAFF PRESENT: Chief Sustainability Officer Dennis Gakunga, Environmental Sustainability Manager
Coleen Wisniewski, Environmental Services Manager Manuel Medrano, and Sustainability Specialists Cory
Downs, Yasemin Corrales and Robert Coleman.
1. APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDER AND MEETING MINUTES: The Consent Calendar and the December
14, 2020 meeting minutes were approved simultaneously and carried the following vote:
Yes – 7 - Baugh, Guevara-Gluyas, Legaspi, Korgan, Richeson, Rodriguez, and Chair Matthias.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: No eComments were submitted during the open public comment period.
INFORMATION ITEMS
2. PRESENTATION ON NEW CONSTRUCTION ELECTRIFICATION
A presentation was made by Robert Carr, Co-director of the San Diego Building Electric Coalition and
Matthew Vasilakis, co-director of Policy, Climate Action Campaign. The presenters explained that Building
Electrification involves installing all-electric appliances and heating systems in buildings in place of those
that use natural gas units. Building Electrification is implemented through changes to local buildings
codes, applies to both residential and commercial buildings, may require retrofits in existing buildings if
extensive rehab is being done, and restricts gas hookups in new construction. Benefits include use of
electric appliances which do not generate indoor air pollution; lower customer utility costs over time;
increases energy efficiency when coupled with new appliances and rooftop solar; and reduced risk to
public safety from piping and storage of natural gas where explosions and fires could occur. Additionally,
it will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with buildings which represent 20-25% of the
state’s total GHG emissions. Building Electrification will help California achieve its climate goals that
requires at least a 40% reduction in building sector GHGs by 2020 and 80% by 2050.
Presenters listed the key state legislation that calls for electric powered equipment in buildings and
emphasized the California Energy Commission’s 2020 Title 24 Building code update that creates an all-
electric baseline option for new construction. It was emphasized that 40 cities in California have adopted
Building Electrification ordinances. All-electric buildings generally cost less to construct because gas
hookups add from $3,000 to $10,000 per new unit. All-electric homes save from $130 to $540 per year
compared to homes with gas and are more affordable to operate by using energy efficient induction
cooktops and heat pump systems that heat and cool air and water. From a health and safety perspective,
natural gas systems leak methane from pipelines and gas storage facilities. Natural gas is responsible for
20-50% of post-earthquake fires. Also, there is no carbon monoxide poisoning in all-electric homes.
Page | 2 Sustainability Commission Minutes
Commissioner Richeson asked with the high costs of electricity in San Diego and the lower costs for
natural gas, if going all-electric provides savings. He also mentioned a formula where gas combined with
electricity is cheaper than just using electricity. Mr. Carr said electricity costs will be lower when San
Diego Community Power starts up. Commissioner Baugh expressed similar costs concerns. She noted for
current homes with gas and electric systems it often does not add up to install a solar electric system.
Another concern is that after homes are converted to all-electric, gas line infrastructure would still be
present. Presenters said that the ordinances are mainly for new construction and starting here would
begin to stop the proliferation of gas infrastructure. The best place to start in existing homes is with
retrofitting with electric heat pumps and phasing out gas appliances. Commissioner Korgan cited data
from the Solar Center ‘s data calculator that a comparison of an electric and gas combined power home
to an all-electric home. Both homes are 2,000 square feet with two residents using the clothes dryer four
times a week. The all-electric home resulted in a $959 annual savings. Mr. Vasilakis offered to check the
numbers and would get back to the Commission with his findings.
Chair Mathias expressed that the City should work with the San Diego Building Electric Coalition on new
homes in Chula Vista. Mr. Medrano said this is a potential action item for the Commission to recommend
that could be taken up at the next Commission meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: One eComment was submitted in favor of the need for transitioning to all-electric.
3. SUSTAINABILITY COMMISION 2010-2020 IN REVIEW
A presentation was made by Ms. Wisniewski on this item. The review provided Commissioners a
perspective of activities over the last 10 years and a glimpse of upcoming activities for 2021 and beyond.
The purpose and role of the Commission is to provide guidance to City staff and the City Council.
Numerous activities and actions were taken including input and support for new ordinances for Energy
and Water Conservation, Landscape Water Conservation, Green Building Standards that go above and
beyond state standards, Graywater Stub-out, Car Sharing, Residential Solar, Commercial Outdoor Lighting
requiring LEDs, Existing Home Sustainability, and Benchmarking. Policies the Commission has been
involved with include Climate Adaption, Climate Action Plan development and implementation,
Stormwater and Wastewater programs, Parks and Open Space programs. Commissioners also serve to
represent the Sustainability Commission on working groups for Climate Change, the Wildlife Advisory
Group for the bayfront, the Bayfront Cultural Design Committee, and Measure P Oversight Committee.
Ad hoc Commission subcommittees include Hydration Stations for Public Schools, Community Choice
Aggregation, Single-use Plastics, Smart Cities, Energy Efficiency ordinances, and Climate Emergency
Declaration. Some of the activities upcoming in 2021 are continuing 2017 Climate Action Plan
implementation and Climate Change Working Group recommendations, Zero Waste Plan, Climate Equity
Index Report, and organics disposal and composting.
Commissioner Richeson asked about the Commission’s request last year to modify the City Charter
regarding expanding the Commission’s role. Mr. Gakunga said City management determined the scope of
the Commission is sufficient. Commissioner Richeson asked where the new, upcoming organics program
stands. Mr. Medrano said City staff, as mentioned at the last meeting, will come back to update the
Commission at an upcoming Commission meeting regarding Republic Services proposal for costs and
benefits for residents and businesses. He noted that it is in the City’s best interests to negotiate the
aspects of the organics program through the City’s franchise agreement with Republic Services instead of
with another company. Vice Chair Legaspi inquired why Chula Vista is taking longer than other
Page | 3 Sustainability Commission Minutes
jurisdictions to meet organics guidelines. Mr. Medrano said this relates to the infrastructure that is
available. Republic Services recently received approval for its permit for organics processing and
construction is underway.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: No eComments were submitted during the open public comment period.
ACTION ITEMS
4. 2018 MUNICIPAL AND COMMUNITY GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORIES
City staff recommends the Commission approve these two reports. The Community GHG Inventory
presentation was made by Mr. Downs and the Municipal GHG Inventory by Ms. Corrales.
The Community Inventory looks at buildings and transportation within the jurisdictional boundaries of
Chula Vista. It feeds off the activities in the 2017 Climate Action Plan of which 71% of these actions are
complete or ongoing. The methodology used is the same as used for all regional jurisdictions applying
SANDAG’s Regional Climate Action Planning Framework (ReCAP) and the study was done by Energy Policy
Initiatives Center (EPIC) of the University of San Diego, School of Law. Information presented from the
study compares 2018 GHG reductions to 2016, 2014, 2012, and 2005 for the transportation, energy and
other sectors of solid waste, water and wastewater. The largest emission reduction was in transportation
even with a 7% reduction since 2005 with a 2% reduction since 2016. Energy had a 13% reduction since
2005 but a 1% increase since 2016. Natural gas has a 2% reduction in usage since 2016 and this is the only
category under Energy that is above the 2005 baseline. The solid waste, water and wastewater sectors
were measured per capita which provides better numbers to evaluate. There was a 29% reduction for
these other sectors per capita since 2005 and a 2% reduction since 2016. It was determined that per
capita is the best way to proceed with the 2020 inventory anticipated for release in 2022. Overall, new
emission reduction goals are to reduce GHGs per capita by: 4 metric tons by 2020, 3 metric tons by 2030,
2 metric tons by 2040, and 1 metric ton by 2050. The use of emissions data from Google is being
considered for future studies.
Municipal GHG emissions specifically focuses on buildings, facilities, systems, and vehicles associated
with City operations. Categories include potable/recycled water (embedded energy), solid waste, sewage,
external lights, buildings, and vehicle fleets. Information presented from the study compares 2018 GHG
reductions to 2016, 2014, 2012, 2005, and the initial baseline year of 1990. The 2018 inventory shows
that municipal emissions is equal to 10,270 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (MTCO2E) with a
4.8% increase in total emissions since 2016 and a 67% decrease since the 1990 inventory. For streetlights
and traffic signals with the switch to LEDs and use of Smart technologies, there has been a 97% reduction
since 1990 and 44% reduction since 2016. For the vehicle fleet a 45% reduction since 2016 and 62%
reduction since 1990. Sixty vehicle chargers were installed to service 15 initial electric vehicles. Since
2018, an additional 34 vehicles were added, 14 all-electric and 20 plug-in hybrids. For buildings, there has
been an increase in GHG emissions, 55% since 2016 and 13% since 1990. The key reason for the increase
is facility use and that existing solar projects were disconnected to incorporate new systems so there was
more consumption from SDG&E sources. Another battery storage project is underway that will use power
from recycled electric vehicle batteries for use in City buildings. The City will have close to 5 megawatts of
solar power when the systems are completed, this will include three other battery storage systems that
Page | 4 Sustainability Commission Minutes
are not yet online, so emissions reductions are anticipated. In the solid waste generation, water and
wastewater transportation categories, there were GHG emissions increases.
Chair Mathias noted it will be interesting to see how transportation emissions in the 2020 Community
Inventory will be affected by COVID-19. Commissioner Baugh inquired about the solid waste GHG
emissions increase in the Municipal Inventory. Mr. Medrano said not much has changed and there are
recycling programs in place, but consumption is up at City facilities and measurement of hauled away
wastes need to be improved. Chair Mathias recommended better training of City employees on sorting of
wastes. Commissioner Korgan recommended overall sustainability training for employees.
MOTION Commissioner Richeson moved to accept the results of the 2018 Community and Municipal
GHG Emissions Inventories. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Korgan and carried the following
vote:
Yes – 7 - Baugh, Guevara-Gluyas, Legaspi, Korgan, Chair Matthias, Richeson, and Rodriguez.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: No eComments were submitted during the open public comment period.
5. CONSIDERATION OF REDUCING THE NUMBER OF CATEGORIES IN THE 2021 SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION
AWARDS DUE TO TEMPORARY COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS
Ms. Wisniewski recommended the Commission discuss reducing the total number of nomination
categories for the 2021 nominations and vote. She presented the seven current categories of
Sustainability Champions. She reviewed the calendar for opening the nomination period in January which
runs through March with awards presented in April. Last year the nomination period was extended due
to COVID-19. Commissioners discussed shrinking down the number of categories to three or four or
keeping them at seven. The discussion included possible changes to a couple of the categories: 1) change
the Youth category to Student, change from youth organization to student organization and eliminate the
under 18 years old requirement; 2) change the Teacher category to Educator.
MOTION Commissioner Richeson moved to accept keeping all seven categories and make the changes
discussed for two of the categories. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Baugh and carried the
following vote:
Yes – 7 - Baugh, Guevara-Gluyas, Legaspi, Korgan, Chair Matthias, Richeson, and Rodriguez.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: No eComments were submitted during the open public comment period.
6. CONSIDERATION OF MODIFICATION TO THE INITIAL LETTER TO HAVE THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA JOIN THE
SAN DIEGO GREEN NEW DEAL ALLIANCE TO REQUEST THE CITY MANAGER CONTINUE TO SUPPORT CITY
STAFF’S INVOLVEMENT IN THE SAN DIEGO GREEN NEW DEAL ALLIANCE EFFORTS.
Mr. Gakunga said the City is presenting a revised letter (January 11, 2021) from the initial letter
(September 14, 2021) to the City Manager with modifications that support City staff involvement in the
San Diego Green New Deal Alliance’s efforts. The initial letter recommended the City become a member
of the Alliance. The revised letter no longer recommends the City join the Alliance as a member. It
emphasizes the City’s Climate Action Plan implementation is aligned with the goals and priorities of the
Alliance and the City could participate in working groups, forums, stakeholder workshops on climate and
equity. The revised letter states that the City does not see a clear process for the City to apply to become
Page | 5 Sustainability Commission Minutes
a member, and currently there are no cities that are members of the Alliance. Mr. Gakunga added that
City management conducted an analysis and determined that membership in the Alliance could present
potentials conflict of interest. He also spoke with Alliance and they acknowledged there is not a current
path for cities to become members but welcomed City of Chula Vista participation in working groups. He
now acknowledged that the original action would have been better if the City focused on involvement
with the Alliance and not on membership.
Chair Mathias said the Commission thought the initial letter was to be issued to the City Council not the
City Manager, and that the Commission wants the Council to see the letter so they are aware the City
would become involved in the Alliance’s working groups. Mr. Gakunga said the revised letter should be
modified to further emphasize the potential involvement of the City with the Alliance and agreed that it
should be addressed to the City Council. The Commission discussed new language additions to the letter
and its presentation to the City Council through the City Manager.
MOTION Commissioner Baugh made the motion to approve the letter with additional content that would
be presented to the City Council through the City Manager and new content added to the letter would
state, “The City would participate as a collaborator, develop a relationship and encourage other cities to
participate and explore potential opportunities for formalized affiliation in the future.” The motion was
seconded by Vice Chair Legaspi and carried the following vote:
Yes – 6 - Baugh, Guevara-Gluyas, Legaspi, Korgan, Chair Matthias, and Rodriguez.
Abstain – 1 - Richeson
PUBLIC COMMENTS: Three eComments were submitted during the open public comment period. Two
were in favor of the action. The third suggested City staff work with the Alliance on the Climate
Emergency Declaration.
STAFF COMMENTS
Ms. Wisniewski said she will make changes to the Sustainability Champions as decided today by the
Commission and move forward with the online nomination process with awards to be announced in
April. The Ad Hoc Commission Subcommittee for the Climate Emergency Declaration is set for January 21.
A three-part webinar series on COVID-19 and Climate has been scheduled with the first session on
February 2 from 11 a.m. to noon. Information will be sent via email to the Commissioners. The
Benchmark ordinance will be presented at the February 2 City Council meeting.
Mr. Medrano said South Bay Soils and Climate Change Chat is set for January 28 from 7 to 8:45 p.m. To
sign up visit www.SD350.org.
Mr. Gakunga said the Climate Mayors of which Mayor Casillas Salas is a participant will be meeting with
the incoming White House climate leadership and an update will be provided at the next Commission
meeting.
CHAIR’S COMMENTS
Chair Mathias expressed interest of the Commission to consider site visits to see how other municipalities
are conducting their organics composting operations. Vice Chair Legaspi said he has contacts with two
facilities, including the EDCO operation in Escondido and other small independent operators in Riverside
Page | 6 Sustainability Commission Minutes
County. Chair Mathias recommended he work the City staff on potential dates and query Commissioners
about attending.
Chair Mathias also reported that South Bay Sustainable Communities collected 7,842 pounds of kitchen
waste for neighborhood composting in 2020. In December alone 1,111 pounds were collected. There are
now five neighborhoods participating.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Matthias adjourned the meeting at 8:38 p.m.
_________________________________
Robert Coleman, Sustainability Specialist
CLIMATE CHANGE WORKING GROUP
2021 Climate Action Plan Update – Recommendations
SUMMARY
The Climate Change Working Group – comprised of residents, business, education, non-profit and
utility representatives – has been evaluating new opportunities to help reach the Chula Vista Climate
Action Plan’s greenhouse gas reduction goal of 55% below 2005 levels by 2030. As such, the CCWG
has identified 7 action recommendations, below, that could help the city reach its 2030 goal, while
improving local air quality, generating utility savings, reducing traffic congestion and promoting a
more equal and healthier community.
Climate Action Recommendations
1 Approve and implement zero waste plan recommendation to eliminate the use of
single use plastics
2
Implement education and outreach to support of decarbonization in new construction
and evaluate incentives and building code options to eliminate GHG emissions
associated with building energy use
3 Review solar permitting process and revise where necessary
4 Implement education and outreach in support of vehicle decarbonization while
evaluating appropriate codes that reduces fossil fuel usage
5 Ensure implementation of the Chula Vista Active Transportation Plan increase
protected bike lanes, or highest level of protection possible, where active
transportations collisions have occurred.
6 Adopt a Climate Equity Index to address environmental and social equity
7
Adopt GHG reduction goal of carbon neutrality by 2045
Background
Since the adoption of the 2017 Climate Action Plan (CAP), the Climate Change Working Group (CCWG) has
been meeting quarterly to review current CAP implementation actions and potential recommendations
for future CAP actions. As presented to the CCWG, the most recent greenhouse gas inventory shows the
City on track to meet its 2020 goal with reductions below the 2005 baseline in all sectors except natural
gas. Some implementation highlights include the adoption of the City’s Active Transportation Plan, the
creation of the Chula Vista Climate Action Challenge and the adoption of a goal for 100% renewable
energy by 2035 and an update can be found online at
https://www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/clean/conservation/climate-action-plan. The
recommendations above are intended to help guide City leaders to reaching the City’s long-term goals.
Planning Process
The CCWG was stablished as a working group of the City’s Sustainability Commission and includes a
diverse membership of residents, businesses, education, non-profit and utility representatives:
Over the last two years the CCWG held 8 public meetings, including an online survey and public forums,
to explore Climate Change related topics and hear from subject matter experts. Through this process the
CCWG evaluated over 100 potential policies or programs before refining the final 7 recommendations.
Some of the criteria that the working group used to make the selections were 1) focusing on actions that
were in the City’s control. 2) limiting actions negative impact to the City and 3) prioritizing actions that
could be implemented within 5 years. Based on the discussions and deliberations of the working group,
the 7 recommendations above will help reduce GHG emissions and provide positive benefits to the
community.
Next Steps
The recommendations are high level and, if supported by City Council, will be further developed by City
staff. Potential implementation actions for each recommendation are listed in Attachment A.
Implementation steps, cost estimates, timelines and GHG reduction estimates, if available, for the various
recommendations will be included in staff’s efforts to being required implementation actions to relevant
commissions and City Council for approval.
Edward Legaspi CCWG Chair Matt Lowery Bike/Walk Chula Vista
Adriana Guevara-Gluyas CCWG Vice-Chair
Carolyn Scofield Giovanna Castro Republic
Len Hering I Love A Clean SD
Angie Guerrero High Tech High
Carmen Richardson CV Charitable Foundation Eric Drabb SDG&E
Clay Clifton Sweetwater Authority
Nick Lee Baldwin & Sons
Rich D'Ascoli Pacific SW Assoc. of Realtors Fabiola Lao Center for Sustainable Energy
Noah Harris Climate Action Campaign
Eddie Price Grid Alternative
Lisa Cohen CV Chamber of Commerce
Environment
Staff
Cory Downs, Yasemin Corrales, Coleen Wisniewski, Manuel Medrano and Dennis
Gakunga
Existing Buildings & Infrastructure
New Development
Community Services
Climate Change Working Group Members
Residents Transportation
Waste Management
Utilities
Attachment A: CCWG Recommendation and Actions
CCWG Recommendations & Actions
1 Approve and implement zero waste plan recommendation to eliminate the use of
single use plastics
a
Study the impacts of adopting a single-use plastic product ban on commercial
entities and ways to mitigate negative impacts of the ban.
b
Present an ordinance to the City Council to eliminate the sale and use of
singleuse plastic products used for food and beverage consumption.
c
Prepare and deploy a multi-year multi-format educational campaign on the
environmental benefits of eliminating single-use plastics in our community
2
Implement education and outreach to support of decarbonization in new
construction and evaluate incentives and building code options to eliminate GHG
emissions associated with building energy use
a
Develop and initiate a comprehensive outreach campaign promoting
decarbonization, including spotlighting model decarbonization projects.
b
Evaluate other jurisdictions and state decarbonization efforts and present at
public event to solicit feedback
c
Based on evaluation and public input, prepare decarbonization recommendations
to the City Council which could include amendments to codes and procedures.
3 Review solar permitting process and revise where necessary
a
Review discretionary permits that may limit the ability for full commercial
deployment and propose revisions to remove impediments to commercial
deployment of solar
4 Implement education and outreach in support of vehicle decarbonization while
evaluating appropriate codes that reduces fossil fuel usage
a
Develop and initiate a comprehensive outreach campaign promoting
decarbonization, including spotlighting model decarbonization projects.
b
Evaluate other jurisdiction and state decarbonization efforts and present at public
event to solicit feedback
c
Based on evaluation and public input prepare decarbonization recommendations
to the City Council which could include amendments to codes and procedures.
5
Ensure implementation of the Chula Vista Active Transportation Plan to increase
protected bike lanes, or highest level of protection possible, where active
transportations collisions have occurred.
a
Track and report on Alternative Transportation Plan implementation and areas of
recurring collisions
b
Conduct a bi-annual community survey to evaluate perceived active
transportation safety.
c Prepare, adopt and implement a Local Road Safety Plan
6 Adopt a Climate Equity Index to address environmental and social equity
a Launch Citywide Equity Initiative
b Implement Climate Equity Index Recommendations
7 Adopt GHG reduction goal of carbon neutrality by 2045
a Host public carbon neutrality and climate emergency stakeholder meeting
b
Develop resolution of carbon neutrality goal and work with Sustainability
Commission on their interest in a potential climate emergency declaration for
City Council
c Adopt municipal goal for carbon neutrality by 2040
d Adopt resolution preventing fossil fuel infrastructure
e
Meet with City departments and stakeholders to create a municipal and
community Carbon Neutrality Action Plan
February 4, 2021
VIA EMAIL
Sustainability Commission
City Hall
276 Fourth Ave
Chula Vista, CA 91910
RE: Climate Action Campaign Comments on the Climate Change Working Group (CCCWG)
Recommendations to Chula Vista Sustainability Commissioners
Dear Chair Matthias, Vice Chair Legaspi, and Sustainability Commissioners,
Climate Action Campaign (CAC) is an environmental nonprofit organization based in San Diego
and Orange County with a simple mission: to stop the climate crisis through effective policy
action.
The 2018 UN IPCC report, Global Warming of Degrees Celsius, warns that in order to stave off
climate catastrophe, we must limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, citing
drought, floods, extreme heat and poverty for hundreds of millions of people if temperatures
rise above 1.5°C. To remain within this threshold, we must entirely eliminate emissions by
mid-century. This critical moment in history demands that at every level of government, we
must take unprecedented action to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure a
safe, livable, and dignified future for all.
The CCWG has identified seven Climate Action Recommendations to be considered by the
Sustainability Commission and City Council for adoption. Below are our comments on ways to
strengthen those CCWG recommendations, and to align them with the most up to date climate
science. Additionally, we urge the City to incorporate each of our comments into a
comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CAP) update.
Zero Carbon
As a long-term planning document, we urge you to ensure the CAP’s horizon year is extended
to 2045 or later, and that the emissions reduction target commits to zero carbon by 2045 or
sooner. To stave off the most devastating impacts of climate change, we must entirely
eliminate greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible.
Recommendation 7 states, “Adopt a GHG reduction goal of carbon neutrality by 2045.” We
urge the Sustainability Commission to instead recommend the adoption of a zero carbon
target, to ensure the City is making progress on direct emissions reductions, as opposed to
relying on carbon offsets that will allow for continued pollution.
Eliminate Building Emissions Through Building Electrification
Even as our cities work to achieve 100% clean electricity, natural gas remains one of the most
significant sources of emissions in our region, so to fully transition away from fossil fuels, we
must reduce and ultimately eliminate natural gas consumption. Because appliances last several
decades, it is critical that we start building electrification today by incorporating key building
electrification measures in the CAP.
Recommendation 2 states, “Implement education and outreach to support decarbonization in
new construction and evaluate incentives and building code options to eliminate GHG
emissions associated with building energy use.”
We recommend CAP measures calling for ordinances that require all newly constructed or
renovated buildings to be all-electric, as well as providing incentives and streamlining to
electrify existing buildings.
We also recommend centering equity in any building electrification plan to protect our most
vulnerable from being stranded with this dangerous asset, and developing an inclusive
community engagement process to gather feedback from communities of concern about their
needs, and share how building electrification can improve their lives.
Transit, Walking and Biking
We applaud Recommendation 5, which states “Ensure implementation of the Chula Vista Active
Transportation Plan to increase protected bike lanes, or highest level of protection possible,
where active transportation collisions have occurred.”
To that end, we recommend much more aggressive and specific CAP mode share targets for
biking, walking, and transit. Currently, the Chula Vista’s CAP contains overall alternative
commute mode share targets (7% by 2020 and 9% by 2035). For example, the City of San Diego
has set a target of 50% commutes in Transit Priority Areas by bike, walk, and transit by 2035.
Additionally, Recommendation 4 states, “Implement education and outreach in support of
vehicle decarbonization...” To meet the needs of Executive Order N-79-20, which calls for
requiring 100% zero emission vehicle sales by 2035 in California, we encourage Chula Vista to
pursue implementation of EV charging stations throughout the City.
Social Equity and Environmental Justice
Recommendation 6 states, “Adopt a Climate Equity Index to address environmental and social
equity,” and we applaud the City for pursuing the development of this critical project.
The CAP should also include a Social Equity section which explicitly defines how the
communities most impacted by the climate crisis and environmental injustices, identified
through the CEI, will be prioritized in the implementation of GHG reduction strategies, including
affordable housing development and investments in urban forestry, active transportation,
renewable energy, and energy efficiency measures.
The development and implementation of this methodology should take place in consultation
with a diverse set of stakeholders and organizations that represent low-income communities of
color who are disproportionately harmed by a fossil fuel economy and are hurt first and worst
by the impacts of a warming climate.
For examples of Climate Action Plans that integrate equity, we recommend referencing the King
County 2020 Strategic Climate Action Plan, Oakland Equitable Climate Action Plan, the
“Planning for a Boston Green New Deal and Just Recovery” Plan, and the Los Angeles’s
Sustainability Plan “LA’s Green New Deal.”
Zero Waste
Recommendation 1 states, “Approve and implement zero waste plan recommendation to
eliminate the use of single use plastics.”
Waste decaying in landfills emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and as such, we urge the
Commission to implement this zero waste plan as soon as possible.
Conclusion
At a time when families and the economy are struggling from the layered challenges of the
COVID-19 pandemic, we believe strengthening the Climate Action Recommendations and
including them in a CAP Update can serve as a tool to help build back a more equitable and
sustainable Chula Vista. We urge you to seize this opportunity to put Chula Vista back on the
map as a climate leader, and to ensure a livable, healthy, prosperous, safe, and equitable
future.
Thank you for the opportunity to weigh in on the development of these critically important
climate actions, and please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. We are
available as a resource and a partner.
Sincerely,
Noah Harris
Policy Advocate
Climate Action Campaign
Sustainability Commission
Meeting Time: 02-08-21 05:00
eComments Report
IIV/IeeU�ngs ��Vfieefl�k�,-��g Agenda Ca�,,f� ririents S U p 0 rt e u�t r�a IIII
'I iii m e IIII It',errf�s
Sustainability Commission 02-08-21 12 11 8 0 1
05:00
Sentiments for All Meetings
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented
will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
72'
Sustainability Commission
02-08-21 05:00
Ag&rida C o r��'rt rrr�e n��'ts S U 0 rt 0 o s e e u It,r a IIII
CONSENT CALENDAR 1 0 0 0
2. REVIEW CLIMATE CHANGE WORKING GROUP 10 8 0 1
RECOMMENDATIONS AND RECOMMEND CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL
Sentiments for All Agenda Items
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented
will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
72'
...........
Ag&rida CkII
Overall Sentiment
Carolyn Scofield
Location:
Submitted At: 4:51 pm 02-08-21
Exciting news from San Diego Community Power! Next month SDCP will begin its clear path to 100% renewable
electricity by 2035 or before. Municipal and school district accounts from the five member cities, including Chula
Vista, will be enrolled. Commercial accounts will be enrolled in June 2021 and residential early in 2022. SDCP is
committed to programs centered on economic, environmental, and social equity, including competitive rates with
a higher mix of renewables, local green jobs, and purchase of local electricity. Initially, Two levels of renewable
electricity will be offered: PowerOn, with a 50% renewable mix, and Powerl 00, with 100% renewable electricity.
Solar owners will be able to sell excess electricity back to SDCP through a Net Metering program. An additional
Feed in Tariff program is being developed for solar owners to sell electricity back to SDCP. This program, not
offered by SDGE, is unique to SDCP and will provide great local opportunities. Check out
https://sdcommunitypower.org today for more information and job postings!
Ag&nda [te�rtrv�� 2 Q�� wo���Z��'Kc
j
C Y
C 0 U C A OV/ �
Overall Sentiment
Ruth Jordan
Location: 01002. Bonita
Submitted At: 0:09pm 02-08'21
| appreciate the emphasis on education but there is technology out there to get UQ to Zero vv@Ste and generate
clean electricity already available with financing.
Is there 8 group which is tracking grants/State/ Federal money to align with 8CtU8| projects?
Fabi Lao
Location: 91911, Chula Vista
Submitted At: 4:30pm 02'08'21
PART 3 of CSE'a comments:
Lastly, we applaud the City of Chula Vista for developing 0 Climate Equity Index (CEI) and strongly support its
adoption, as indicated in Recommendation 6. We also support the implementation of actions 6e and 6b. CSE was
8 [DeD0be[of the stakeholder group that helped develop the CEI, and we appreciate staff's Oonl[DitnleDt and
collaborative 8ppn]@Oh through that process. The CEI will help enSUn8 that OoDln0UDitieS that have been
disproportionately impacted by climate change will be prioritized during the implementation of the Climate Action
Plan (CAP). Furthermore, we support Climate Action Campaign's recommendation to odd e 800ie| Equity section
inthe 2O21 CAP Update.
CSE appreciates the Commission's leadership and commitment to an action-oriented and equitable CAF! We look
forward to continuing our collaboration with the City Thank you for your consideration.
FabioUa Lao
Location: 91910. Chula Vista
Submitted At: 4:27pm 02'08'21
PART 2 of CSE'a comments:
For Recommendation 4:
" CSE recommends that "vehic|e decarbonization" be replaced with "clean transportation". The latter is the term
that is used in the transportation industry and in state policies and programs (e.g.. the California Energy
Commission's Clean Transportation PnOgn8rn). By aligning with what is used in state efforts. the City of Chula
Vista will be better positioning itself when applying for state funding.
"For actions 48. 4b and 4c. CSE recommends that "decarbonization" be replaced with "clean transportation."
"CSE also encourages the addition of 8 new implementation action to Recommendation 4. In addition to staff
evaluating clean transportation efforts by state and other jurisdictions (part of action 4@). we suggest that staff
prepare an inventory ofthe City's current clean transportation efforts (especially permitting streamlining
initiatives) and @88e88 how these line up to the following state tools: 1\ the California Governor's Office of
Business and Economic Development'o (GO-Biz) "Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permitting Guidebook"; and
2) GO-Biz's "Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permit Streamlining Map". Planned clean transportation initiatives
(such as municipal fleet electrification) could also be included in the inventory, and opportunities for
complementary actions could be identified where possible.
(Rest of comments to continue in PART 3)
Fabiola Lao
Location: 92110, San Diego
Submitted At: 4:22pm 02-08-21
PART 1: Given the character limit for each e-Comment, we're breaking up our comments in different parts. We
sent a letter to staff to share with you that includes all of our comments.
Dear Commissioners,
The Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Climate Change
Working Group's (CCWG) Recommendations for the 2021 Climate Action Plan Update. We support these
recommendations and suggest amendments and additions outlined below.
Recommendation 2: "Implement education and outreach in support of decarbonization in new construction and
evaluate incentives and building code options to eliminate GHG emissions associated with building energy use.
• CSE suggests a new implementation action be added to Recommendation 2. In addition to staff evaluating
building decarbonization efforts by the state and other jurisdictions (part of action 2a), we suggest that a market
analysis be conducted to evaluate the current new construction market and provide insights into how different
incentives and/or building code measures best align with city needs.
(Rest of comments to continue in PART 2).
Richard D'Ascoli
Location: 91910, Chula Vista
Submitted At: 3:42pm 02-08-21
The staff did a good job finding balance in this proposal. With the high cost of housing and the growing
homelessness and flight from California, it is important to avoid adding additional costs to housing. I would
strongly recommend that the City take a thorough look at item #3."Review commercial solar permitting process
and streamline when possible." Our organization built a solar array at 880 Canarios Ct. in Chula Vista. PSAR
intended to build solar parking covers along property lines that boarded the parking of other commercial
landlords. The process to get that approved was necessarily onerous. If the city had allowed these structures we
would have doubled our solar production. We were limited to building structures in the middle of the parking lot
without jumping through many administrative hoops. Instead of adding regulation, the city should first look at
wise methods of reducing red tape and encouraging the use of renewable energy. This is one example where
less is more. I'm sure there are many others. Most commercial spaces in Chula Vista are surrounded by parking
lots that butt up against other parking lots. Please use land use rules to encourage companies to invest in
renewable energy.
Rita Clement
Location: 91914, CHULA VISTA
Submitted At: 3:09pm 02-08-21
Good evening Commissioners, my name is Rita Clement. I am co-lead of SanDiego 350's South Bay Eco Justice
Team. I support all 7 suggestions from the Chula Vista Climate Change Working group. We need to center
equity when considering our climate change solutions.
These solutions are contained in the 7 actions listed in the CCWG document. We are experiencing climate
change emergency impacts right now. It's almost too late to take the needed actions to decarbonize residential,
commercial and our transportation sectors. Please consider adoption of these suggested actions tonight. Health
and safety concerns will be lowered if we adopt the use of electrical appliances in our homes and incentivize the
purchase of electrical vehicles, especially in communities of concern. As you know, plastic is now a heavy part of
our food chain and bringing our own plates and cups to a restaurant may cut down on the use of plastic. I thank
you for your hard work on the Sustainability Commission and your efforts to improve the health and safety of our
children in the future.
Carolyn Scofield
Location:
Submitted At: 2:44pm 02-08-21
Good Evening, my name is Carolyn Scofield, a long-time resident of Chula Vista and Climate Change Working
Group member. To support health and economic recovery in our community, we must also address climate crisis
impacts. I support all CCWG Recommendations with added considerations below. 1. Promote access to EV
chargers, especially in communities of concern. We must require EV chargers in new construction of multifamily
residential buildings. Sales of new gas-powered passenger vehicles will be banned by 2035. Lack of EV chargers
in multifamily dwellings is an equity barrier to EV ownership in areas that need them (and healthy air) the most. 2.
Promote electrification in new construction. New home buyers in Chula Vista should be able to purchase all
electric homes, free of charges for gas infrastructure. Since California requires new homes to have solar panels,
the best option for saving money on electricity in new homes is to use electric appliances (for indoor air quality
and safety, too). New commercial buildings must have solar panels in 2030 and should be considered also.
3. Provide incentive programs to build and/or own solar panels or solar projects and sell back renewable
electricity to San Diego Community Power, with priority given to those residing in communities most impacted by
climate change. Finally, a Zero Carbon goal in our CAP best supports achieving all these goals. Thank you.
Gina Woodard
Location:
Submitted At: 1:25pm 02-08-21
Good evening. As a teacher in and resident of Chula Vista, I would like to thank all of the Commissioners for their
efforts in making significant and tangible progress related to climate change and for their commitment to drafting
and implementing an equitable and comprehensive Climate Action Plan update.
In order to effectively mitigate the impacts of climate change, we need to take immediate action to work to
decarbonize residential, commercial, and transportation sectors to ensure a safer and more equitable future for
all. I would like to encourage the Commission to recommend the adoption of a Zero Carbon Climate Action Plan
to help us get on track to meet the need to eliminate carbon emissions within the next two decades. This includes
adopting ordinances requiring the electrification of all newly constructed or renovated buildings as well as
providing incentives and streamlining to electrify existing buildings.
Lastly, in alignment with the collaborative work of the Climate Equity Index development team, I would like to
encourage the Commission to prioritize our most vulnerable and at-risk residents, especially our children, when
drafting and implementing climate action and GHG reduction plans. Thank you for your time and service to our
City.
el i cortez
Location: 92507, riverside
Submitted At: 1:03pm 02-08-21
1 am a volunteer for the Heartland Coalition, 6125 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92114. Heartlandcln.org. We are
pleased to support your Climate Change working group recommendations. I would like to share that there is a
great opportunity in achieving your goals and objectives via current Waste Recycle Technology to Energy which
We are working on at the Heartland Coalition sustainability team. Dirty Plastic Waste is a major challenge for all
communities worldwide. The Plastic pollutes the streams, rivers and the ocean and becomes a dangerous micro
plastic challenge to be managed. Only 10% of the Plastic generated is recycled. This Dirty Plastic waste is being
stockpiled, since it is illegal to bury it in the landfills in California and China is no longer buying the Dirty plastic.
We would appreciate the opportunity to share the Dirty Plastic Technology to Energy solution and discuss
developing a pilot program for your City. It will be a Win Win Win for the City of Chula Vista and its surrounding
communities. It'll directly enhance your implementation of your Climate Change program, expedite compliance
with Federal and State regulations regarding this Dirty Plastic Dangerous and Toxic waste, It will improve the
Economic impact to your Tourism and create local long lasting jobs while cleaning up you environment for All. I
thank you in advance for your consideration to share. Sincerely, Eli Cortez.
Noah Harris
Location: 92103, San Diego
Submitted At: 7:00pm 02-04-21
Good evening. This is Noah Harris, with Climate Action Campaign, commenting on the CCWG Climate Action
Recommendations.
First, I want to thank the Commissioners for demonstrating a commitment to making progress on climate action.
We encourage the City to align each of the recommendations under consideration with the most up to date
climate science, and to include all strategies in a comprehensive Climate Action Plan update.
To stave off the most devastating impacts of climate change, climate science says we must eliminate carbon
emissions by mid-century. This critical moment in history demands that at every level of government, we need to
take unprecedented action to entirely decarbonize every sector to ensure a safe, livable, and equitable future.
As such, we urge the Commission to recommend adoption of a Zero Carbon Climate Action Plan. A CAP with a
zero carbon target would be groundbreaking for the region, but it's what the science says is necessary.
Additionally, we urge you to recommend adoption of ordinances requiring all newly constructed or renovated
buildings to be all-electric, as well as providing incentives and streamlining to electrify existing buildings.
Finally, for the CAP, we recommend a Social Equity section which explicitly defines how the communities most
impacted by the climate crisis and environmental injustices, identified through the Climate Equity Index, will be
prioritized in the implementation of GHG reduction strategies. Thank you.