2:00 PM, Monday, March 18, 2013 Council Chamber Few Memorial Hall Monterey, California
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
REPORTS FROM TAC MEMBERS
PUBLIC COMMENTS PUBLIC COMMENTS allows you, the public, to speak for a maximum of three minutes on any subject which is within the jurisdiction of the MPRWA TAC and which is not on the agenda. Any person or group desiring to bring an item to the attention of the Committee may do so by addressing the Committee during Public Comments or by addressing a letter of explanation to: MPRWA TAC, Attn: Monterey City Clerk, 580 Pacific St, Monterey, CA 93940. The appropriate staff person will contact the sender concerning the details.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. February 25, 2013
2. March 4, 2013
AGENDA ITEMS
3. Receive Report on First Governance Committee Meeting (Burnett)
4. Receive Report from Cal-Am Water Regarding Progress in Meeting Authority Adopted Conditions for Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project (Cal Am Rep Bowie)
5. Receive Report From Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency Regarding The Ground Water Replenishment Project (Israel, Stoldt)
6. Discuss and Review Benefits and Disadvantages of Private Investor-Owned vs. Public Ownership of Desalination Facilities (Riley)
7. Approval of Meeting Dates Through June 30, 2013 (Milton)
ADJOURNMENT
Created date 03/15/2013 1:57 PM Monday, March 18, 2013 2
The Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority is committed to include the disabled in all of its services, programs and activities. For disabled access, dial 711 to use the California Relay Service (CRS) to speak to staff at the Monterey City Clerks Office, the Principal Office of the Authority. CRS offers free text-to-speech, speech-to-speech, and Spanish-language services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you require a hearing amplification device to attend a meeting, dial 711 to use CRS to talk to staff at the Monterey City Clerks Office at (831) 646-3935 to coordinate use of a device or for information on an agenda.
Agenda related writings or documents provided to the MPRWA are available for public inspection during the meeting or may be requested from the Monterey City Clerks Office at 580 Pacific St, Room 6, Monterey, CA 93940. This agenda is posted in compliance with California Government Code Section 54954.2(a) or Section 54956.
M I N U T E S MONTEREY PENINSULA WATER AUTHORITY (MPRWA) TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) Regular meeting 2:00 PM, Monday, February 25, 2013 580 PACIFIC STREET CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA
Members Present: Huss, Israel, Riedl, Riley, Seigfried, Stoldt, Burnett,
Chair Burnett reported on a meeting he attended with the California Coastal Commission and Cal Am to discuss permitting issues for the Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project test wells. They also discussed the process of for obtaining parallel permits and requested that the Authority host monthly meetings to stay informed about the project application status. He indicated that several action items resulted from the meeting for Cal Am to follow up with. Chair Burnett also took the opportunity to recognize two staff members for their efforts toward submitting testimony to the California Public Utilities Commission prior to the deadline on February 22, 2013.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chair Burnett opened the item to public comments for items not on the agenda and had no requests to speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. February 4, 2013
On a motion by Member Stoldt seconded by Member Riley and carried by the following vote, the Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority TAC approved the minutes of February 4, 2013 as amended.
2. Receive Report and Discuss Outside Agency Actions Regarding the Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project
a. Monterey County Board of Supervisors - (Burnett)
Chair Burnett reported that the Monterey County Board of Supervisors supported and adopted the Authoritys position statement as well as discussed the issue of the statement of principles. The Governance committee document was unanimously approved and the Board appointed to the governance committee the primary representative Supervisor Potter and an alternate representative the Supervisor from the Salinas region. Chair Burnett acknowledged it as an important step to have a united voice with all six member city mayors and all five supervisors to have the same stance. The Board endorsed the statement of principles in general, but did not formally adopt the position statement as their own due to pending litigation and settlement agreement with Cal Am. Chair Burnett opened this item to public comment, and having no requests to speak, turned to the next report from Member Stoldt.
b. Monterey Peninsula Water Management District - (Stoldt)
Member Stoldt reported on the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District Board meeting on January 30, 2013 and approved similar actions including stronger support for Ground Water Replenishment, and pending the identification of non substantive changes, approved the Governance document. MPWMD re-endorsed the concept of a public contribution as well as several other financial suggestions. The Board voted 6-0, under further consideration voted 4 to 2, to oppose surcharge two, and continued to endorse further evaluation of backstops. The issue of project sizing, a general statement of support, was deferred to a special meeting on February 12, 2013 where the Board agreed with the demand forecast and project sizing, with and without GWR.
Chair Burnett opened the item for comments from the public. Sue McCloud spoke to a letter published in the Monterey Herald opinion page from Member Stoldt, thanking him for making a complicated project more understandable to the public. She then suggested publication of the same Article in the Salinas Californian. Nelson Vega questioned why Member Stoldt did not include the costs per acre foot because he thinks the public is only concerned about the cost and if the project can be built He then requested that the Authority help Cal Am attain the source water need for the MPWSP project. With no further requests to speak, Chair Burnett closed public comment.
c. Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency - (Israel)
Member Israel deferred to report on this item until Agenda Item 4.
d. Monterey Regional Waste Management District Presentation of Availability of Landfill Gas for Power Generation (W. Merry) MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 1., tem Page 2, Packet Page 2 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, February 25, 2013
3
William Merry from the Monterey Regional Waste Management District made a presentation on efforts to make the landfill gas (LFG) to energy project viable enough to sell power to a desalination facility. The District has been producing energy through the landfill gas to energy program for 30 years. Mr. Merry discussed that the LFG program is an economic benefit for a small to medium landfill however there have been many lessons learned over the course of the project. He observed that when the developer began the project in 1983, energy prices declined immediately even though PG&E had forecast a rise in prices, and the developer sold the LFG project to the District. In the beginning years of operating the project, revenues fell short of operating expenses. Lesson learned: be critical of forecasts.
Mr. Merry then discussed different types of power purchase agreements and optimal markets to sell their converted power and indicated that PG&E has a strangle hold on small biomass generators adding new generation to the grid. That would be a disincentive to go forward with energy production, but an agreement with the MPWSP project would be an over the fence or direct access agreement and would eliminate most or all PGE fees. He also indicated that the District currently has the opportunity to sell gas as boiler fuel and in the future is considering increasing generation of energy to 7 megawatts. Mr. Merry also explained that the District is exploring the option to turn the landfill gas into compressed natural gas to fuel vehicles and currently has an informal agreement with the MRWPCA to explore options for converting biogas to CNG to run vehicles on the alternative fuel. Mr. Merry further explained that efforts to diversify opportunities to utilize landfill gas is a redundancy that small producers can use to stay profitable. He encouraged the Authority to urge Cal Am to consider the District energy as a way to close the loop by buying local energy. Items/challenges that would need to be addressed if the MPWSP would consider Purchasing power from the District: The district is actively engaged in making decisions for the next 10 to 20 years. They need to use the LFG productively or flare it off. Addressing the imbalance: if the demand is higher than the supply? On a growth scale. They are producing 24/7. Tolerance for supply changes Identification of the redundancy requirements Identification of the demand including: continuous, average demand; maximum; and seasonal Identification of the tolerance for electric power supply to be down (in the event of a PG&E mandated shut down, or Natural Disaster) What is facilitys power redundancy requirements/plan What is facilitys anticipated down time? What would MPWSP be willing to pay for power on a kilowatt-hour basis? District will need to be paid at market rates When would MPWSP wish to negotiate, sign a power sales agreement?
Mr. Merry answered questions from the TAC. Member Siegfried asked if the District had the ability or would consider selling the LFG in raw form to the desal facility instead of processing it at your facility, so that the facility would be able to use that heat generated during combustion to make the process more efficient. Mr. Merry responded by discussion of the supply source and lifespan of the landfill. Regulations from the state are requiring greater diversion from the landfill. On the waste water side, there is a push to develop power generation through solids. MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 1., tem Page 3, Packet Page 3 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, February 25, 2013
4 Over the last 5 to 7 years, the generation of in-District (ie, from the Peninsula) waste to the landfill has decreased by 35% which is for a variety of reasons, including a fundamental shift by consumers to buy smaller and construction and demolition waste has been repressed from the economy. Contracts for bringing waste from other areas is making up for lost tonnage and revenues and even with those contracts the District has an anticipated lifespan of 150 more years. He indicated that the District property sits adjacent to the PG&E natural gas pipeline serving the Peninsula and within a year or two may have the ability to feed natural gas into the pipeline for sale. Member Stoldt asked about proven reserves for landfill gas. Mr. Merry indicated that an average forecast for LFG was thought to be 20 years, 30 to 40 years in a drier environment. The District, however, is still generating gas from the part of the landfill that was filled 50 years ago. In future years, they are looking at minimizing what is going into a landfill, but collection of landfill gas will continue for the next 20 to 40 years. Mr. Merry responded to the question about current power sales costs and indicated that power the District sells as renewable in the bay area is making 8.5 cents per kilowatt-hour, whereas PG&E is paying 7 to 8 cents. Two years ago renewable power could be sold for 10 cents/kw-hr, or more, but depends on markets as solar and Wind overbuilt. Over the fence agreements are advantageous because there are fewer fees and processing charges.
Chair Burnett opened for public comment. Libby Downey questioned the market rate of power and how Marina Coast was able to get a better rate. She expressed frustration at the statement made by Cal Am Representative Rich Svinland that the MPWSP would not purchase power from any company outside of PG&E. Nelson Vega questioned the reliability of the power in the event of a disaster and also questioned the financial ability to weather price fluctuations. With no further requests to speak, Chair Burnett closed public comment.
Mr. Merry responded to Mrs. Downey, indicating that the District did hold preliminary discussions with Marina Coast about price, but discussions did not proceed to the point of agreeing on a price before other more pressing matters demanded attention at the MCWD. He also clarified to her that the District will always look to make decisions that are in the best interest of the residents, businesses and member agencies of the District. Speaking to Mr. Vega's comment about reliability, if they were to form an agreement there would be redundancies built into the system such as a contract with PG&E, the ability to tap into the natural gas pipeline, or other options.
Mr. Merry urged the TAC to consider if purchasing power at the lowest possible cost was a prime objective, even if it was not renewable power; and further, if it was important to buy renewable power, was it a primary objective to purchase the power from the District, as opposed to buying renewable power from a broker.
Chair Burnett clarified that one of the Authority adopted positions includes having direct decision making ability with regard to the procurement of all non PG&E power. The pending Governance committee could work together with the District on this issue.
3. Report from Cal-Am Regarding Test Well Design, Development and Permitting
Cal Am Representative Richard Svindland updated the TAC regarding the test well design, development and permit progress indicating that there is a meeting scheduled with the MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 1., tem Page 4, Packet Page 4 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, February 25, 2013
5 company Semex this week to finalize their permission to proceed by accepting the operation will not affect their ability to harvest sand. This permission is needed to be able to submit for permits before the Coastal Commission as early as August, and as late as October, in time to construct prior to the snowy plover nesting season. Mr. Svindland reported that design is under way, using the first presented design and modifying for the current site. The process of procuring the test well has begun with intention to drill November 1, 2013. This schedule does include the process of obtaining the permits from City of Marina. He then answered questions from the TAC.
Chair Burnett opened the item for public comment, having no requests to speak, closed public comment. He requested at the next TAC meeting that Cal Am provide an update on all eight conditions the Authority has approved.
4. Receive and Discuss Update on Ground Water Recharge, Aquifer Storage and Recovery, and Pacific Grove Small Water Projects
Member Israel reported that MRWPCA approved a budget for Groundwater Replenishment at a Special MRWPCA Board meeting on February 11. He also noted that the Pollution Control Agency has been analyzing the downward wastewater flows trend, and projections for flows in different scenarios, including combining other water sources. The PCA still anticipates the project being completed on schedule by December 2016. Member Israel expressed gratitude for the article in the Newspaper from the Water Management District as well as from the Authority.
Member Israel then expressed concern that over the last year there has not been a significant amount of money or effort on public outreach as budget approval was delayed. With this type of project there are many issues and misconceptions, many being factual information, competing with opinion and interpretation. The MRWPCA is intending to ramp up efforts including scheduling trips to Orange County to work with staff that has a great outreach program which they can learn from. Member Israel answered questions from the TAC. Chair Burnett offered that as the public outreach effort begins, please look to Mayors and Authority as a partner expressing the idea that the message and the messenger are important. The Mayors have been unanimous in support of GWR and they should be used as a resource. Member Riley expressed concern about the Authoritys future decision points undermining the commitments of the PCA in the future. The TAC discussed the ability of the project to proceed, the commitments that have been made and the potential hurdles that could obstruct the process.
Chair Burnett opened the item to public comment. Nelson Vega spoke to the cost of water, and the unresolved issue of source water. He requested that the TAC encourage the Authority to request an extension to the Cease and Desist Order deadline and look at the most cost effective way to get water. Jim Cullem spoke to and provided an article from the MIT Technology Review Magazine indicating concerning points include the availability of funding for public outreach and encouraged the Authority to be more proactive and focus on the public outreach and the potential for GWR, with the yuck factor. Suggest we preempt with good examples of effective GWR campaigns so people understand the water cycle before it is placed MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 1., tem Page 5, Packet Page 5 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, February 25, 2013
6 in the Seaside Aquifer. With no further requests to speak, public comment was closed.
Burnett responded that the Authority is working to re-engage the State Water Board on having a periodic meeting regarding the CDO but clarified that they Authority would not be requesting an extension at this point, but engaging now with the Board will allow them to see the progress the region is making which will only help if they do ask for an extension in the future. The TAC discussed optional outreach methods and tours that would help engage and educate the public and local agencies on this issue, but refocused to say the goal is to focus efforts and keep things moving at this time. Member Stoldt then reported on the Monterey Peninsula Water Management Districts ASR project indicating that six of the eight wells have been constructed. The Third and fourth well are owned and operated at the Seaside Middle school and will be completed during summer vacation. Wells five and six are part of the application for MPWSP. Permits will be restructured to accept water from anywhere instead of a specific source. There is an eight well total capacity at this time, and could potentially increase to 10 in the future. Additionally the WMD is expanding a back flush pit for the third and forth site. He reported that funding is strong, and progress is strong. Chair Burnett opened the ASR discussion for public comment, and having no requests to speak, closed public comment.
Israel made a clarifying statement that bringing in more stormwater to the sewer system would be beneficial for projects, such as the Groundwater Replenishment and other recycled water projects. He also commented on the role of storm water indicating the PCA is exploring the use of the winter water flows and that Pacific Grove has been using grant funding to divert storm water from the bay, and wants to develop projects to help encourage the community to divert storm water flow from the bay back to the PCA.
5. Receive Testimony Submitted to California Public Utilities Commission February 22, 2013 Deadline for Application (A- 12-04-019) Based on the MPRWA Approved Position Statement (Information Only)
Burnett spoke to the item and indicated it was for information only then opened the item to the public for comment. Having none, closed public comment. Executive Director Reichmuth clarified the agenda items for the next meeting. Having no further business to come before the TAC, Chair Burnett adjourned the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Respectfully Submitted, Approved,
Lesley Milton, Committee Clerk President MPRWA MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 1., tem Page 6, Packet Page 6
M I N U T E S MONTEREY PENINSULA WATER AUTHORITY (MPRWA) TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) Regular Meeting 2:00 PM, Monday, March 4, 2013 COUNCIL CHAMBER FEW MEMORIAL HALL MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA
Members Present: Israel, Narigi, Riedl, Riley, Siegfried, Stoldt, Burnett
Chair Burnett invited reports from TAC members and had no requests to speak.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chair Burnett invited public comments for items not on the agenda and had no requests to speak.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. February 25, 2013 Action: Continued
TAC Members Israel and Stoldt requested updates to the document for clarification and TAC agreed to continue this item until the next meeting to allow for incorporation.
AGENDA ITEMS
2. Receive Report Regarding Pacific Grove Small Water Projects and Make Recommendations As Necessary (Frutchey) Action: Received Report and Discussed
Pacific Grove City Manager Tom Frutchey report on the current status of the Pacific Grove Small Water Projects indicating a full project description was submitted to the California Public Utilities Commission as well as intervener testimony regarding Cal Ams application (A-12-01- 019). He then indicated that the project is 20% through the design engineering phase and has MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 2., tem Page 1, Packet Page 7 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, March 4, 2013
2 applied for and received 3 grants to progress the project to 40%. Grants received total $2.6 million with matching funds of $975,000.
Mr. Frutchey then reported that financing options are open. They are working with Cal Am as a partner on these projects, have had preliminary discussions with the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, as well as exploring SRF funds and additional grants. With regard to storage all projects seem to have challenges and they are still exploring options. Water rights also are being explored and discussions are occurring with the Pollution Control Agency as well as meetings with Land Watch and The Farm Bureau. Staff will continue working with other agencies and stakeholders to make these projects a reality. Mr. Frutchey then answered questions from the TAC.
Member Riley requested clarification on the partnership with the City of Monterey. Mr. Frutchey explained the Neighborhood Improvement Program is looking to address the storm water flow that is feeding into the Areas of Biological Significance (ASBS) which flows through the David Avenue reservoir area. Chair Burnett requested clarification if this project is identified as a project alternative by the CPUC, what the direction to Cal am would be. Mr. Frutchey first clarified this would be a NON-potable water purchase agreement and indicated that this would replace current local potable water demands.
Chair Burnett questioned the status of the CEQA process. Mr. Frutchey responded that it is not resolved at this time and that the CPUC is the potential lead agency. Chair Burnett then questioned the impact of flows with regard to the Ground Water Replenishment project (GWR) to which Mr. Frutchey responded all sewage flows will have to go to the MRWPCA however to what extent that flow is expected to be placed in the aquifer and how much less water will go to the PCA is dependent on a series of factors which he can provide at a later date.
Chair Burnett opened the item to public comment and having to requests to speak, brought the item back to the TAC. He then reminded the TAC that the Authority has endorsed the Local Water Projects in principle, but have not yet gotten into the level of detail.
Member Narigi questioned the price of water produced by these projects. Mr. Frutchey said that two of the projects appear to be less costly than the cost of potable water, because they treat storm water and dry water flows, but the cost avoidance is the overall advantage and will bring down the costs. The cost avoidance is what makes the projects financially attractive. Mr. Frutchey closed by expressing appreciation to Cal Am for all their assistance and informed the TAC that he considers it a positive partnership. The TAC did not take any action at this time.
3. Receive Report Regarding Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency Feb 27, 2013 Meeting Regarding The Ground Water Replenishment Project (Israel) Action: Received Report and Discussed
Member Israel reported on the CEQA planning workshop hosted by the MRWPCA with a purpose for preplanning to understand the issues to integrate within, in addition to talking about MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 2., tem Page 2, Packet Page 8 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, March 4, 2013
3 the series of feasibility options. Needed further input to understand what was necessary to address. The conclusion of the meeting was that if new flows could be identified it would resolve many future challenges of the parties and bring in enough water for the GWR that works around the water rights issues. The next step is to pass on a summary to the consultants, and GWR project team. The first phase has an anticipated completion by June 2013 and CEQA done by second quarter of 2014. CEQA work has been awarded to the local firm Denise Duffy and Associates. Also discussed was to develop Memorandum of Understandings to show and document progress in advance of formal agreements and to discuss eventual water rights. Member Israel then answered questions of the TAC.
Member Stoldt agreed that it was productive meeting but acknowledged that a few issue still need to be addressed. Member Burnett questioned a comment made by a rep at the meeting to the effect that the City of Salinas might want to be compensated in addition to the reduced liability. Burnett questioned what other sources of waste water can they be looking at. Member Israel responded by speaking to the increasing role of storm water and how it is considered a liability. The PCA has capacity due to conservation efforts and had in the past rejected storm water but acknowledged that it might be advantageous to consider it as an option. Storage is the key, and certainly the GWR can use it in the winter time. No other use for it unless you can find an alternative storage capability.
Executive Director Reichmuth questioned if the MRWPCA has considered splitting GWR into two different flow options. Member Israel indicated it will be addressed in the feasibility study and noted that some of the different sources may be problematic and not cost effective.
Member Riedl questioned if the Salinas River water is a potential source. Member Israel affirmed but indicated there are water rights and permitting issues associated and it would be difficult due to implement due to the short time frame.
Member Siegfried questioned the phasing of development and indicated that the Department of Public Health requires experience with GWR before a District can initiate flow pipe to pipe. He then questioned how much experience the MRWPCA has, then questioned if the issue has been addressed where specific elements are picked up while the water is in the aquifer. Member Israel indicated the MRWCPA has addressed the safety and the technological issues but their major concern is the ability to move along as quickly as the public is comfortable with. The technology is proven and there is 30 years of demonstrated ability in the Orange County area.
Chair Burnett opened the item for public comment and had no requests to speak. MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 2., tem Page 3, Packet Page 9 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, March 4, 2013
4 a. Discuss Criteria Governance Committee Shall Use in Making Ground Water Replenishment Recommendation as Specified in Category A.1 of the Governance Committee Agreement
Chair Burnett introduced the item indicating that this will be just an initial discussion and will be brought back before the TAC as it progresses. He requested that the TAC identify the criteria which the Governance Committee should adopt for making GWR decisions and how to work toward those criteria. He identified the following items which need to be addressed or resolved: cost, timing, completion of process, public outreach (perception) and water rights. The final decision will not be made for a number of years; however a preliminary decision will be needed within two years to have the project completed on schedule. Executive Director Reichmuth encouraged making public outreach a much larger focus. In order to advance the issue of reuse of treated waste water, substantial outreach should be completed by all involved agencies, prior to the project coming online. To date agencies have only focused on the desalination component and not the process for final water. It is time to shift the focus. He recommended that the MRWPCA make a presentation to the Authority Directors at the March 14 th , 2013 meeting. Member Narigi encouraged there be more communication about the quality of the finished product as it will be the highest concern from the public. Member Riedl encouraged stable pricing over the long term, and assurance that the project should be robust so it is not affected by drought or water source fluctuation. Member Siegfried spoke to the public outreach comments and indicated from experience it takes at least 10 years to conduct proper outreach that will change behavior. However, there are factors playing in our favor: desperation, as well as other successful examples. He then suggested separation of the outreach of desalination from the GWR processes. He then questioned why the GWR project will determine the desalination facility sizing.
Chair Burnett opened the item to the public for comments. Ron Cohen expressed concern over GWR that we are pushing the edge of technology but the problem is that we are desperate for water and any missteps are going to cost all of us dearly, with no reserve to make mistakes. Cautioned the Authority to recognize not only the yuck factor, but also if mistake is made, such as pathogen eradication is not complete, we could find ourselves subject to an outcry with using the treated water. Cautioned if this is an essential part of the strategy for replenishment. With no further requests to speak, Chair Burnett closed public comment. Member Israel responded that there is an tremendous track record as there never has been an association with anyone getting sick or having a problem by using GWR methods. The science is extremely conservative, as compared to other sources of water. Member Stoldt reminded the TAC that the Authority has already endorsed to GWR project and the TAC should try to remain supportive of their policy decision. With no more discussion on the item at this time, Chair Burnett continued to Item 4. MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 2., tem Page 4, Packet Page 10 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, March 4, 2013
5 4. Receive Report from Cal-Am Water Regarding Progress in Meeting Authority Adopted Conditions for Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project
Cal Am Representative Catherine Bowie presented the update on the eight Authority adopted conditions of support for the Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project. She indicated that condition _ has been fully met with the adoption of the Governance Committee document. The other conditions were spoken to in order of adoption:
Contribution of Public Funds. To date Cal Am has received a proposal from Monterey Peninsula Water Management District to outline a structured proposal. Everyone agrees they are good concepts but issue have been identified. All three parties have been meeting to work through the issues. Governance Committee: Rob McLean was authorized to execute the Governance agreement and Chair Burnett clarified if the agreement has been finalized and has been adopted by the Authority Electricity Rates: Cal Am has been successful in revising the original estimate from 12.9 cents to 9 cents per hour and PG&E will continue to work to further reduce. Rich Svinland offered to complete a formal study to analyze this and could work with the TAC for that analysis. Limiting the Use of Surcharge Two: Cal Am is open to continue discussions. A model has been developed which outlines the impacts of delaying the use of surcharge two and it was significant. Test Wells: Addressing Tim Durbins testimony. The PUC EIR consultant for GEO science has resealed a memo that refutes that of Mr. Durbins testimony. It has been sent to the PUC. Second, the meeting with Semex last week granted the permission necessary to complete the permit for the City of Marina. The permits remaining are from the Coastal Commission and the State lands Commission. All three should be filed in the next three weeks. The Coastal Commission hearing should be in August or October. The project will also file an application with army corps of engineers. Collaborating with Local Public Agencies; Cal am and the Authority have been participating in meeting with Coastal Commission and are willing to engage with other necessary agencies. Clarification of NEPA requirement: Will be answered by the EIR Team. She mentioned the determination of requiring a NEPA permit will not be a decision made by Cal Am but by other permitting agencies. Exploring Other Intake Methods: CPUC required a quarterly report be made available to the public, which needs to include updates to the contingency plant. The first will be due July 31, 2013 and will be required though 2017. Also, Mr. Svinlands supplemental testimony includes detailed description of the contingency plans, and that document is available on the project website www.mpwsp.org SRF Funding: The State Water Resources Control Board cannot put into writing Cal Ams ability to access to SRF funding, until the EIR is complete. There is a letter between agencies that could apply, but a formal letter will have to wait. Addressing Sea Level Rise: Spoke to Mr. Svinlands last presentation which explains that this has been addressed and a detailed description can be found in the supplemental testimony.
Ms. Bowie then answered questions from the TAC. Chair Burnet clarified that competing for a NEPA permit would make the project eligible for federal funds, which makes it important to push for an answer. He then requested clarification regarding the condition that Cal Am pursue a contingent intake strategy, in parallel to the current strategy and questioned why Cal Am is not MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 2., tem Page 5, Packet Page 11 MPRWA TAC Minutes Monday, March 4, 2013
6 proceeding with this. He also asked if Cal Am is looking for more direction from the CPUC before actually expending to develop the contingency further. Cal Am representative John Kilpatrick responded that Cal Am has fully listed the contingency plans, but will pursue the slant wells consistent with the ocean plan requirements. He indicated Cal Am wants to follow that one through until that becomes unfeasible and does not want to develop other contingencies in parallel. Chair Burnett countered that the Authority has a different position, and questioned how to rectify the two positions. He questioned if it was an issue with funding and expressed that the two groups need to work through this issue. Mr. Kilpatrick responded that their current funding only allows for pursuing the test well at this time.
Chair Burnett opened the item for public comment. Tom Rowley expressed concern that it seems like we are continually raising issue or sub issues that dont really have a deadline. He encouraged the Authority to assign a deadline or a timeline with every project or issue for it to be resolved or completed by. He also recommended that an alternate source of feed water should be addressed. With no further requests to speak, Chair Burnett brought the discussion back to the Board and requested that Executive Director Reichmuth review all eight conditions adopted by the Authority regarding the MPSWP to see which ones have been competed or mark a status of.
Member Stoldt questioned the response statement regarding the memo submitted by Tim Durbin. Since it was rejected by the Administrative Law Judge and resubmitted last week, he questioned if Cal Am will address it directly in the testimony so it becomes part of the public record. Ms. Bowie indicated that she is not sure, but the testimony rebuttal is due Friday.
5. Discuss and Review Benefits and Disadvantages of Private Investor-Owned vs. Public Ownership of Desalination Facilities (Riley)
In the interest of time, the TAC unanimously agreed to continue this item until the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 3:51 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted, Approved,
Lesley Milton, Committee Clerk Jason Burnett, MPRWA TAC Chair MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 2., tem Page 6, Packet Page 12 Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority Agenda Report
Date: March 18, 2013 Item No: 3.
06/12 FROM: Clerk to the Authority
SUBJECT: Receive Report on First Governance Committee Meeting and Provide Direction
RECCOMENDATION: There is no written material for this item. An oral report will take place at the meeting
MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 3., tem Page 1, Packet Page 13
Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority Agenda Report
Date: March 18, 2013 Item No: 4.
08/12
FROM: Prepared By: Clerk to the Authority
SUBJECT: Receive Report from Cal-Am Water Regarding Progress in Meeting Authority Adopted Conditions for Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project
DISCUSSION:
There is no written report for this item. An oral report will be given by a representative from Cal Am at the meeting.
MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 4., tem Page 1, Packet Page 15
Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority Agenda Report
Date: March 18, 2013 Item No: 5.
08/12
FROM: Prepared By: Clerk to the Authority
SUBJECT: Receive Report Regarding Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Association Feb 27, 2013 Meeting Regarding the Ground Water Replenishment Project (Israel)
DISCUSSION:
There is no written report for this item. An oral presentation from TAC Member Israel will take place at the meeting.
MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 5., tem Page 1, Packet Page 17
Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority Agenda Report
Date: March 18, 2013 Item No: 6.
08/12
FROM: Prepared By: Clerk to the Authority
SUBJECT: Discuss and Review Benefits and Disadvantages of Private Investor-Owned vs. Public Ownership of Desalination Facilities (Riley)
DISCUSSION:
There is no written report for this item. An oral presentation given by TAC Member Riley will take place at the meeting.
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Public Ownership Of Desal Facilities By George Riley 2. Water and Public Ownership MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 6., tem Page 1, Packet Page 19 To: TAC of MPRWA March 12, 2013 revised From: George Riley
Subj: Public Ownership of Desal Facilities
Cal Am proposes that it fully own all infrastructure. MPRWA proposes various financing options to Cal Am's plans in order to reduce costs to ratepayers. Two private entrepreneurs have proposed desals with public ownership, in general tying to the county ordinance that requires public ownership via a public sponsor or partner. Lately the two private sponsors seem to be pursuing other options, including going forward as private developers to sell water to Cal Am for purveying. Also MPWMD is pursuing a public ownership back-up in case Cal Am falters or fails.
It is my contention that public ownership of desal facilities will lower costs, simplify financing, elevate public interest over corporate profit, establish straightforward governance, and commit to public trust oversight.
One way to discuss public ownership is through the implications of the various financing schemes under consideration. The desal facility and infrastructure are my focus. Not ASR, GWR, nor the Cal Am only Peninsula pipeline.
State Revolving Fund loans are limited. They are typically made for public projects, and generally in amounts much smaller than Cal Am's proposal. Loans for water reprocessing facilities are more typical. GWR is a better candidate, not desal, and possibly in larger amounts. However, a publicly owned desal is a better applicant than a corporate utility. 1. What are the current loan capacities of entities making revolving fund loans? 2. What parts of Cal Am's proposal fall within the scope of such revolving fund loans? 3. Would there be competition between MRWPCA and Cal Am? 4. What assurances must a public partner make to qualify for a partnership application? 5. What risk evaluations will the SRF process require?
Public bond financing by MPWMD or a wider partnership has been suggested to substitute for Cal Am equity financing. Various arrangements have been described. However the simplest and easiest path is public financing for a project owned by the agency seeking the financing. 1. Is MPWMD to function as broker? 2. If MPWMD were to actually assume or guarantee a loan, what liabilities would it incur? 3. Would it conceivably guarantee a loan? 4. Can MPRWA be a partner? Does MPRWA have any ability to pledge long term creditworthiness? 5. What risk assessments will an underwriter require? 6. MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 6., tem Page 2, Packet Page 20 What justifies assumptions of 4% financing when numerous potential risks have been identified? 7. How do the problems of inadequate information relate to this (i.e., lack of test well data until 2015-2016)? 8. Will interest rates be higher because of the complications in structure and legal relationships? 9. What is the status of the facility asset at the end of debt financing? 10. Will the residual asset become fully owned by Cal Am? 11. How would this be valued by Cal Am, and how would it show on financial statements? 12. Would liabilities and commitments be more direct and manageable if the bond financing were based on public ownership by MPWMD? Would it be less costly? 13. Is an equivalent share of equity a possibility? Public ownership will simplify all public financing opportunities.
Surcharge 2 is Cal Am's suggestion. Both SRF and public bond financing will undergo risk evaluation, but not the surcharge. The $99 million surcharge is most exposed to risk, yet has none of the institutional risk evaluations expected for SRF and public bond financing. Furthermore there are no interest rate assumptions about this financing; therefore the real value of this early money is undervalued. 1. Are early risks not getting adequate attention when the assumed discount rate of 4% in MPWMD financing models generally reflects a low risk project? 2. What would be the likely level of current interest rates for high risk projects, and should it be estimated for calculating the value of the surcharge? For example, what would be the interest rate for the first $100 million invested in the highest risk period? 3. Would the first $100 million by surcharge ease the acquisition of later funding? 4. Is avoidance of rate shock adequate justification? 5. What level of oversight is expected to judge Cal Am prudence, and by what agency? 6. What assurances do ratepayers have that the surcharge is fair? 7. What do ratepayers receive in return for fronting the early high risk capital? Ownership? Of what? How? 8. Will the surcharge help overcome Cal Am's deficiency in its bond rating? 9. What is Cal Am's bond rating?
Financing is not the only area of interest. Not presented here are issues of overall lowering of costs, elevation of the public interest over corporate profit, establishing straightforward governance, and committing to public trust and oversight.
I think it would it be cheaper, easier, quicker if the desal facilities were publicly financed and owned by an appropriate local agency?
MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 6., tem Page 3, Packet Page 21 WATER AND PUBLIC OWNERSHIP
March 10, 2013
BACKGROUND Water is a natural resource vital for all life and survival. Local supplies from Carmel River and Seaside Basin have been over-drafted by Cal Am. Fundamental differences exist between private corporate for-profit ownership (Cal Am) and public ownership by a local agency. Many are cited below.
CAL AM CORPORATE MONOPOLY PUBLIC OWNERSHIP AGENCY/PARTNERSHIP
BASIC DIFFERENCES Fundamental corporate requirement to generate profit and grow investment equity. Fundamental requirement to serve the public interest and honor a public trust. Profit and equity growth can conflict with public trust and public interest Public agency accountability does not include any profit or equity considerations. About 20% of Californians get water from corporate or private providers. 15% nationwide About 80% of Californians get water from public agencies. 85% nationally. Investor Owned Utilities (i.e., Cal Am) are regulated by CA Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Public agency utilities are regulated locally, under state law. CPUC procedures in San Francisco control most aspects of privately owned utilities. CPUC has no jurisdiction over public agency owned systems. Distribution of product water to customers is a natural monopoly. Production of product water for distribution is not a natural monopoly. Supply water from public agency production can be sold to a monopoly distribution purveyor. Cal Am has no local meetings open to the public, and no requirement to do so. Only the CPUC holds local meetings, and then only to review a specific Cal Am project. Public agencies are subject to state law regarding public notice, public hearings, open meetings, public access, and public official accountability to conflict of interest and campaign contribution laws.
COSTS AND SAVINGS Return to Cal Am is 8% +/- (based on an average of return on equity of 10% and interest on debt of 6%. Public agencies make no profit. Debt cost is about 4%, substantially less than corporate debt. MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 6., tem Page 4, Packet Page 22 Corporate bonds are taxable Public bonds are tax free. A $400 million capital project financed over 30 years will have profit and interest costs of another $600 million A $400 million capital project with public bond financing will add about $400 million, a savings of about $200 million over 30 years. Corporate utilities must pay income and property taxes Public agencies pay no income taxes. They pay no property taxes, but may make 'in lieu' payments to other public agencies. Corporate utilities are not eligible for federal and state grants. Public agencies are eligible, and can lower costs with grants. Corporate utilities are eligible for limited public low interest loans. Low interest loans were initially intended for public agencies, and are more likely to be available, and in larger amounts.
OFF-SITE VS LOCAL Cal Am headquarters are in San Diego. It is a is wholly owned subsidiary of American Water Works, with its headquarters in New Jersey. The full range of decision-makers would be known, and they would be local. American Water Works is a powerful market force in the water industry. No. 1 in the USA. Guided by corporate priorities. Local control by people who live here will more likely consider our needs; current and future, economic and environmental, growth and sustainability, cost and convenience, and our grandchildren. Administrative costs for off-site activities such as policy and financial management, computer and call center services, are exported out of the Monterey Peninsula economy. Public ownership would reduce the amount of expenses that are exported. The monies needed for local services would churn in the local economy. Cal Am lists no local phone numbers. Call Center is out of state. Service reps are not familiar with local area. . Ratepayers could report leaks and complain if necessary to a local office, and to someone who knows the area. All customer payments, including 8% profit +/-, and 1%-2% administrative costs, are exported out of the local economy. Customer payments would go directly and completely to the public entity, and through local banks. CA review and approval proceedings take place at CPUC in San Francisco. With a local public water agency, all project proceedings at the CA Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) would be eliminated. Only rate-setting for Cal Am purchased water and distribution would go to CPUC.
MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 6., tem Page 5, Packet Page 23
Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority Agenda Report
Date: March 18, 2013 Item No: 7.
08/12
FROM: Prepared By: Clerk to the Authority
SUBJECT: Approval of Meeting Dates Through June 30, 2013
DISCUSSION:
The Technical Advisory Committee has been meeting the first and third Monday of every month at 2:00 p.m.
The following dates are recommended for future meetings through June 30 th , 2013.
April, 1, 2013 April 15, 2013
May 6, 2013 May 20, 2013
June 3, 2013 June 17, 2013
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the TAC approve the above meeting dates through June 30, 2013
MPRWA TAC Meeting, 3/18/2013 , tem No. 7., tem Page 1, Packet Page 25