Master Services Agreement
This Master Services Agreement (“MSA” or “Agreement”) is made and entered into this __________, 2025 and governs the consulting services provided by Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP (“Baker Tilly”, “we”, “us” or “our”) for Redwood Coast Energy Authority (“Client”) (each a “Party,” and together the “Parties”) under various Statements of Work (“SOW”) issued hereunder (“Services”). This MSA, together with attachments and any SOW issued hereunder, constitute the entire understanding and agreement between Client and Baker Tilly with respect to the Services, and supersede and incorporate all prior or contemporaneous representations, understandings or agreements, and may not be modified or amended except by an agreement in writing signed between the parties hereto. This Agreement’s provisions shall not be deemed modified or amended by the conduct of the Parties. If there is a conflict between this Agreement and the terms of any SOW, this Agreement shall govern.
Client acknowledges that Baker Tilly is also able to provide unrelated services, including without limitation, financial audit, wealth management, and tax services (collectively “Out of Scope Services”). Should Client wish to engage Baker Tilly in connection with any Out of Scope Services, the Parties shall negotiate appropriate terms and conditions for such Out of Scope Services in separate written engagement letter(s).
Term of Agreement
The term of this agreement shall be for a period commencing on the Effective Date of this MSA through June 30, 2026, unless terminated earlier or extended, as provided for herein.
Section 1. Confidentiality
With respect to this Agreement and any information supplied in connection with this Agreement and designated by the disclosing party (the Disclosing Party) as “Confidential Information” either by marking it as “confidential” prior to disclosure to the receiving party (the Recipient) or, if such information is disclosed orally or by inspection, then by indicating to the Recipient that the information is confidential at the time of disclosure and confirming in writing to the Recipient, the confidential nature of the information within ten (10) business days of such disclosure, the Recipient agrees to: (i) protect the Confidential Information in the same manner in which it protects its confidential information of like importance, but in no case using less than reasonable care; (ii) use the Confidential Information only to perform its obligations under this Agreement; and (iii) reproduce Confidential Information only as required to perform its obligations under this Agreement.
This section shall not apply to information which is (A) publicly known, (B) already known to the recipient; (C) disclosed to a third party without restriction; (D) independently developed; or (E) disclosed pursuant to legal requirement or order, or as is required by regulations or professional standards governing the Services performed. Subject to the foregoing, Baker Tilly may disclose Client’s Confidential Information to its subcontractors and subsidiaries.
Section 2. Deliverables
(a) Unless otherwise stated in a specific Statement of Work, subject to Baker Tilly’s rights in Baker Tilly’s Knowledge (as defined below), Client shall own all, intellectual property rights in the deliverables developed under the applicable Statement of Work ("Deliverables"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Baker Tilly will maintain all ownership right, title and interest to all of Baker Tilly’s Knowledge. For purposes of this Agreement “Baker Tilly’s Knowledge” means Baker Tilly’s proprietary programs, modules, products, inventions, designs, data, or other information, including all copyright, patent, trademark and other intellectual property rights related thereto, that are (1) owned or developed by Baker Tilly prior to the Effective Date of this Agreement (“Baker Tilly’s Preexisting Knowledge”) (2) developed or obtained by Baker Tilly after the Effective Date, that are reusable from client to client and project to project, where Client has not paid for such development; and (3) extensions, enhancements, or modifications of Baker Tilly’s Preexisting Knowledge which do not include or incorporate Client’s confidential information. To the extent that any Baker Tilly Knowledge is incorporated into the Deliverables, Baker Tilly grants to Client a non-exclusive, paid up, perpetual royalty-free worldwide license to use such Baker Tilly Knowledge in connection with the Deliverables, and for no other purpose without the prior written consent of Baker Tilly.
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(b) The documentation for this engagement, including the workpapers, is not part of the Deliverables, is the property of Baker Tilly and constitutes confidential information. We may have a responsibility to retain the documentation for a period of time sufficient to satisfy any applicable legal or regulatory requirements for records retention. Baker Tilly does not retain any original client records; so we will return such records to you at the completion of the Services rendered under this engagement. When such records are returned to you, it is the Company’s responsibility to retain and protect its accounting and other business records for future use, including potential review by any government or other regulatory agencies. By your signature below, you acknowledge and agree that, upon the expiration of the documentation retention period, Baker Tilly shall be free to destroy our workpapers related to this engagement. If we are required by law, regulation or professional standards to make certain documentation available to Regulators, Client hereby authorizes us to do so.
Section 3. Acceptance
Client shall accept Deliverables which (i) substantially conform to the specifications in the Statement of Work or (ii) where applicable, successfully complete the mutually agreed to acceptance test plan described in the Statement of Work. Client will promptly give Baker Tilly written notification of any nonconformance of the Deliverables with such requirements (Nonconformance) within thirty (30) days following delivery of such Deliverables, and Baker Tilly shall have a reasonable period of time, based on the severity and complexity of the Nonconformance, to correct the Nonconformance so that the Deliverables substantially conform to the specifications. If Client uses the Deliverable before acceptance, fails to promptly notify Baker Tilly of any Nonconformance within such 30-day period, or delays the beginning of acceptance testing more than five (5) business days past the agreed upon date for the start of such acceptance testing as specified or otherwise determined under the Statement of Work, then the Deliverable shall be deemed irrevocably accepted by the Client.
Section 4. Payment Terms
Client shall pay Baker Tilly for services rendered under each Task Order with a combined total maximum amount not to exceed $49,500. The rates and billing structure for the Services will be set forth in each SOW. Baker Tilly will submit invoices per the applicable billing structure for each SOW, due 30 days from receipt. To the extent applicable, the invoices will show our expense charges for such items as travel, communications, purchase of data, and other similar costs. Baker Tilly, without liability, may withhold delivery of services/Deliverables/work product and may suspend performance of its obligations pending payment of all charges that are due and unpaid more than forty-five (45) days after receipt. Client will be responsible for all costs of collection (including attorneys’ fees) as may be allowed by law.
Section 5. Standards of Performance
Baker Tilly shall perform its Services in conformity with the terms expressly set forth in this Agreement. Accordingly, our Services shall be evaluated on our substantial conformance with such terms and standards. Any claim of nonconformance (and applicability of such standards) must be clearly and convincingly shown. Client acknowledges that the Services will involve the participation and cooperation of management and others of Client. Unless required by professional standards or Client and Baker Tilly otherwise agree in writing, Baker Tilly shall have no responsibility to update any of its work after its completion.
Section 6. Warranty
(a) Each party represents and warrants to the other that it has full power and authority to enter into and perform this Agreement and any Statement of Work entered into pursuant hereto and the person signing this Agreement or such Statement of Work on behalf of each party hereto has been properly authorized and empowered to enter into this Agreement.
(b) Client warrants that it has the legal right and authority, and will continue to have the legal right and authority during the term of this Agreement, to operate, configure, provide, place, install, upgrade, add, maintain and repair (and authorize Baker Tilly to do any of the foregoing to the extent the same are included in the Services) the hardware, software and data that comprises any of Client’s information technology system upon which or related to which Baker Tilly provides Services under this Agreement.
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(c) Baker Tilly warrants that any Services that it provides to Client under this Agreement and any Statement of Work will be performed in accordance with generally accepted industry standards of care and competence. Client’s sole and exclusive remedy for a breach of Baker Tilly’s warranty will be for Baker Tilly, in its sole discretion, to either: (i) use its reasonable commercial efforts to re-perform or correct the Services, or (ii) refund the fee Client paid for the Services that are in breach of Baker Tilly’s warranty. Client must make a claim for breach of warranty in writing within thirty (30) days of the date that the Services that do not comply with Baker Tilly’s warranty are performed. This warranty is voided in the event that Client makes alterations to the Services provided by Baker Tilly or to the environment in which the Services are used (including the physical, network and systems environments) that are not authorized in writing by Baker Tilly. If Client does not notify Baker Tilly of a breach of Baker Tilly’s warranty during that 30-day period, Client will be deemed to have irrevocably accepted the Services.
(d) Baker Tilly does not warrant any third-party product (each, a Product). All Products are provided to Client by Baker Tilly “AS IS.” Baker Tilly will, to the extent it is allowed to by its vendors, pass through any warranties and indemnifications provided by the manufacturer of the Product. Client, recognizing that Baker Tilly is not the manufacturer of any Product, expressly waives any claim that Client may have against Baker Tilly based upon any product liability or infringement or alleged infringement of any patent, copyright, trade secret or other intellectual property right (each a Claim) with respect to any Product and also waives any right to indemnification from Baker Tilly against any such Claim made against Client by another. Client acknowledges that no employee of Baker Tilly or any other party is authorized to make any representation or warranty on behalf of Baker Tilly that is not in this Agreement. (e) This section 5 is Baker Tilly’s only warranty concerning the Services and any deliverable, and is made expressly in lieu of all other warranties and representations, express or implied, including any implied warranties of merchantability, ACCURACY, TITLE, noninfringement or fitness for a particular purpose, or otherwise.
Section 7. Limitation on Damages and Indemnification
(a) The liability (including attorney’s fees and all other costs) of Baker Tilly and its present or former partners, principals, agents or employees related to any claim for damages relating to the Services performed under this Agreement shall not exceed the fees paid to Baker Tilly for the portion of the work under the SOW to which the claim relates, except to the extent finally determined to have resulted from the willful misconduct or fraudulent behavior of Baker Tilly relating to such Services. This limitation of liability is intended to apply to the full extent allowed by law, regardless of the grounds or nature of any claim asserted, including the negligence of either party. Additionally, in no event shall either party be liable for any lost profits, lost business opportunity, lost data, consequential, special, incidental, exemplary or punitive damages, delays, interruptions or viruses arising out of or related to this Agreement even if the other party has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
(b) As Baker Tilly is performing the Services solely for the benefit of Client, Client will indemnify Baker Tilly, its subsidiaries and their present or former partners, principals, employees, officers and agents against all costs, fees, expenses, damages and liabilities (including attorneys’ fees and all defense costs) associated with any third-party claim, relating to or arising as a result of the Services, Client’s use of the Deliverables, or this Agreement. (c) In the event Baker Tilly is requested by the Client; or required by government regulation, subpoena or other legal process to produce our engagement working papers or its personnel as witnesses with respect to its Services rendered for the Client, so long as Baker Tilly is not a party to the proceeding in which the information is sought, Client will reimburse Baker Tilly for its professional time and expenses, as well as the fees and legal expenses, incurred in responding to such a request.
(d) Because of the importance of the information that Client provides to Baker Tilly with respect to Baker Tilly’s ability to perform the Services, Client hereby releases Baker Tilly and its present and former partners, principals, agents and employees from any liability, damages, fees, expenses and costs, including attorney's fees, relating to the Services, that arise from or relate to any information, including representations by management, provided by Client, its personnel or agents, that is not complete, accurate or current, whether or not management knew or should have known that such information was not complete, accurate or current.
(e) Each party recognizes and agrees that the warranty disclaimers and liability and remedy limitations in this Agreement are material bargained for bases of this Agreement and that they have been taken into account and reflected in -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 141
determining the consideration to be given by each party under this Agreement and in the decision by each party to enter into this Agreement.
(f) The terms of this Section 6 shall apply regardless of the nature of any claim asserted (including, but not limited to, contract, tort or any form of negligence, whether of Client, Baker Tilly or others), but these Terms shall not apply to the extent finally determined to be contrary to the applicable law or regulation. These Terms shall also continue to apply after any termination of this Agreement.
(g) Client accepts and acknowledges that any legal proceedings arising from or in conjunction with the Services provided under this Agreement must be commenced within twelve (12) months after the performance of the Services for which the action is brought, without consideration as to the time of discovery of any claim or any other statutes of limitations or repose.
Section 8. Personnel
During the term of this Agreement, and for a period of six (6) months following the expiration or termination thereof, neither party will actively solicit the employment of the personnel of the other party involved directly with providing Services hereunder. Both parties acknowledge that the fee for hiring personnel from the other party, during the project term and within six months following completion, will be a fee equal to the hired person’s annual salary at the time of the violation so as to reimburse the party for the costs of hiring and training a replacement.
Section 9. Data Privacy and Security
(a) To the extent the Services require Baker Tilly to receive personal data or personal information from Client, Baker Tilly may process, and engage subcontractors to assist with processing, any personal data or personal information, as those terms are defined in applicable privacy laws. Baker Tilly’s processing shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable privacy laws relevant to the processing in providing Services hereunder, including Services performed to meet the business purposes of the Client, such as Baker Tilly’s tax, advisory, and other consulting services. Applicable privacy laws may include any local, state, federal or international laws, standards, guidelines, policies or regulations governing the collection, use, disclosure, sharing or other processing of personal data or personal information with which Baker Tilly or its Clients must comply. Such privacy laws may include (i) the EU General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 (GDPR); (ii) the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA); and/or (iii) other laws regulating marketing communications, requiring security breach notification, imposing minimum security requirements, requiring the secure disposal of records, and other similar requirements applicable to the processing of personal data or personal information. Baker Tilly is acting as a Service Provider/Data Processor, as those terms are defined respectively under the CCPA/GDPR, in relation to Client personal data and personal information. As a Service Provider/Data Processor processing personal data or personal information on behalf of Client, Baker Tilly shall, unless otherwise permitted by applicable privacy law, (a) follow Client instructions; (b) not sell personal data or personal information collected from the Client or share the personal data or personal information for purposes of targeted advertising; (c) process personal data or personal information solely for purposes related to the Client’s engagement and not for Baker Tilly’s own commercial purposes; and (d) cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to Client to ensure compliance with applicable privacy laws. Client is responsible for notifying Baker Tilly of any applicable privacy laws the personal data or personal information provided to Baker Tilly is subject to, and Client represents and warrants it has all necessary authority (including any legally required consent from individuals) to transfer such information and authorize Baker Tilly to process such information in connection with the Services described herein. Client further understands Baker Tilly US, LLP and Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP may co-process Client data as necessary to perform the Services, pursuant to the alternative practice structure in place between the two entities. Baker Tilly is responsible for notifying Client if Baker Tilly becomes aware that it can no longer comply with any applicable privacy law and, upon such notice, shall permit Client to take reasonable and appropriate steps to remediate personal data or personal information processing. (b) Client agrees that Baker Tilly has the right to utilize Client data to improve internal processes and procedures and to generate aggregated/de-identified data from the data provided by Client to be used for Baker Tilly business purposes and with the outputs owned by Baker Tilly. For clarity, Baker Tilly will only disclose aggregated/de-identified data in a form that does not identify Client, Client employees, or any other individual or business entity and that is stripped of all persistent identifiers. Client is not responsible for Baker Tilly’s use of aggregated/de-identified data. -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 142
(c) Baker Tilly has established information security related operational requirements that support the achievement of our information security commitments, relevant information security related laws and regulations, and other information security related system requirements. Such requirements are communicated in Baker Tilly’s policies and procedures, system design documentation, and contracts with customers. Information security policies have been implemented that define our approach to how systems and data are protected. Client is responsible for providing timely written notification to Baker Tilly of any additions, changes or removals of access for Client personnel to Baker Tilly provided systems or applications. If Client becomes aware of any known or suspected information security or privacy related incidents or breaches related to this Agreement, Client should timely notify Baker Tilly via email at [email protected].
Section 10. Termination
(a) This Agreement may be terminated at any time by either party upon written notice to the other. However, upon termination of this Agreement, this Agreement will continue to remain in effect with respect to any Statement(s) of Work already issued at the time of such termination, until such Statements of Work are themselves either terminated or the performance thereunder is completed.
(b) This Agreement and all Statements of Work may be terminated by either party effective immediately and without notice, upon: (i) the dissolution, termination of existence, liquidation or insolvency of the other party, (ii) the appointment of a custodian or receiver for the other party, (iii) the institution by or against the other party of any proceeding under the United States Bankruptcy Code or any other foreign, federal or state bankruptcy, receivership, insolvency or other similar law affecting the rights of creditors generally, or (iv) the making by the other party of any assignment for the benefit of creditors.
(c) Client shall pay Baker Tilly for all Services rendered and expenses incurred as of the date of termination, and shall reimburse Baker Tilly for all reasonable costs associated with any termination. In the event that collection procedures are required, the Company agrees to be responsible for all expenses of collection including related attorneys’ fees. (d) Any rights and duties of the parties that by their nature extend beyond the expiration or termination of this Agreement, including but not limited to, limitation of liability, confidentiality, ownership of work product, and survival of obligations, any accrued rights to payment and remedies for breach of this Agreement shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement or any Statement of Work.
Section 11. Dispute Resolution
(a) Except for disputes related to confidentiality or intellectual property rights, all disputes and controversies between the parties hereto of every kind and nature arising out of or in connection with this Agreement as to the existence, construction, validity, interpretation or meaning, performance, nonperformance, enforcement, operation, breach, continuation or termination of this Agreement shall be resolved as set forth in this Section using the following procedure:
In the unlikely event that differences concerning the Services or fees should arise that are not resolved by mutual agreement, both parties agree to attempt in good faith to settle the dispute by engaging in mediation administered by the American Arbitration Association under its mediation rules for professional accounting and related services disputes before resorting to litigation or any other dispute-resolution procedure. Each party shall bear their own expenses from mediation and the fees and expenses of the mediator shall be shared equally by the parties. If the dispute is not resolved by mediation, then the parties agree that the dispute or claim shall be settled by binding arbitration. The arbitration proceeding shall take place in the city in which the Baker Tilly office providing the relevant Services is located, unless the parties mutually agree to a different location. The proceeding shall be governed by the provisions of the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) and will proceed in accordance with the then current Arbitration Rules for Professional Accounting and Related Disputes of the AAA, except that no prehearing discovery shall be permitted unless specifically authorized by the arbitrator. The arbitrator will be selected from Judicate West, AAA, JAMS, the Center for Public Resources, or any other internationally or nationally-recognized organization mutually agreed upon by the parties. Potential arbitrator names will be exchanged within 15 days of the parties’ agreement to settle the dispute or claim by binding arbitration, and arbitration will thereafter proceed expeditiously. Any issue concerning the extent to which any dispute is subject to arbitration, or concerning the applicability, interpretation or enforceability of any of these procedures, shall be governed by the FAA and resolved by the arbitrators. The arbitration will be conducted before a single arbitrator, experienced in -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 143
accounting and auditing matters. The arbitrator shall have no authority to award nonmonetary or equitable relief and will not have the right to award punitive damages or statutory awards. Furthermore, in no event shall the arbitrator have power to make an award that would be inconsistent with the Engagement Letter or any amount that could not be made or imposed by a court deciding the matter in the same jurisdiction. The award of the arbitration shall be in writing and shall be accompanied by a well reasoned opinion. The award issued by the arbitrator may be confirmed in a judgment by any federal or state court of competent jurisdiction. Discovery shall be permitted in arbitration only to the extent, if any, expressly authorized by the arbitrator(s) upon a showing of substantial need. Each party shall be responsible for their own costs associated with the arbitration, except that the costs of the arbitrator shall be equally divided by the parties. Both parties agree and acknowledge that they are each giving up the right to have any dispute heard in a court of law before a judge and a jury, as well as any appeal. The arbitration proceeding and all information disclosed during the arbitration shall be maintained as confidential, except as may be required for disclosure to professional or regulatory bodies or in a related confidential arbitration. The arbitrator(s) shall apply the limitations period that would be applied by a court deciding the matter in the same jurisdiction, including the contractual limitations set forth in this Engagement Letter, and shall have no power to decide the dispute in any manner not consistent with such limitations period. The arbitrator(s) shall be empowered to interpret the applicable statutes of limitations. (b) Because a breach of any the provisions of this Agreement concerning confidentiality or intellectual property rights will irreparably harm the nonbreaching party, Client and Baker Tilly agree that if a party breaches any of its obligations thereunder, the nonbreaching party shall, without limiting its other rights or remedies, be entitled to seek equitable relief (including, but not limited to, injunctive relief) to enforce its rights thereunder, including without limitation protection of its proprietary rights. The parties agree that the parties need not invoke the mediation procedures set forth in this section in order to seek injunctive or declaratory relief.
Section 12. Force Majeure
In the event that either party is prevented from performing, or is unable to perform, any of its obligations under this Agreement due to any act of God, fire, casualty, flood, war, strike, lock out, failure of public utilities, injunction or any act, exercise, assertion or requirement of any governmental authority, epidemic, destruction of production facilities, insurrection, inability to obtain labor, materials, equipment, transportation or energy sufficient to meet needs, or any other cause beyond the reasonable control of the party invoking this provision (Force Majeure Event), and if such party shall have used reasonable efforts to avoid such occurrence and minimize its duration and has given prompt written notice to the other party, then the affected party’s failure to perform shall be excused and the period of performance shall be deemed extended to reflect such delay as agreed upon by the parties.
Section 13. Taxes
Baker Tilly’s fees are exclusive of any federal, national, regional, state, provincial or local taxes, including any VAT or other withholdings, imposed on this transaction, the fees, or on Client’s use of the Services or possession of the Deliverable (individually or collectively, the Taxes). All applicable Taxes shall be paid by Client without deduction from any fees owed by Client to Baker Tilly. In the event Client fails to pay any Taxes when due, Client shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Baker Tilly, its officers, agents, employees and consultants from and against any and all fines, penalties, damages, costs (including, but not limited to, claims, liabilities or losses arising from or related to such failure by Client) and will pay any and all damages, as well as all costs, including, but not limited to, mediation and arbitration fees and expenses as well as attorneys’ fees, associated with Client’s breach of this Section 12.
Section 14. Notices
Any notice or communication required or permitted under this Agreement or any Statement of Work shall be in writing and shall be deemed received (i) on the date personally delivered; or (ii) the date of confirmed receipt if sent by Federal Express, DHL, UPS or any other reputable carrier service, to applicable party (sending it to the attention of the title of the person signing this Agreement) at the address specified on the signature page of this Agreement or such other address as either party may from time to time designate to the other using this procedure. -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 144
Section 15. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement and any Statement(s) of Work constitute the entire agreement between Baker Tilly and Client with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior agreements, promises, understandings and negotiations, whether written or oral, regarding the subject matter hereof. No terms in any Client purchase order that are different from, or additional to, the terms of this Agreement will be accorded any legal effect and are specifically hereby objected to by Baker Tilly. This Agreement and any Statement of Work cannot be amended unless in writing and signed by duly authorized representatives of each party. Headings in this Agreement are included for convenience only and are not to be used to construe or interpret this Agreement.
(b) In the event that any provision of this Agreement or any Statement of Work is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unenforceable because it is invalid or in conflict with any law of any relevant jurisdiction, the validity of the remaining provisions shall not be affected, and the rights and obligations of the parties shall be construed and enforced as if the Agreement or such Statement of Work did not contain the particular provisions held to be unenforceable. The unenforceable provisions shall be replaced by mutually acceptable provisions which, being valid, legal and enforceable, come closest to the intention of the parties underlying the invalid or unenforceable provision. If the Services should become subject to the independence rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to Client, such that any provision of this Agreement would impair Baker Tilly’s independence under its rules, such provision(s) shall be of no effect.
(c) Neither this Agreement, any Statement of Work, any claims nor any rights or licenses granted hereunder may be assigned, delegated or subcontracted by Client without the written consent of Baker Tilly. Baker Tilly may assign and transfer this Agreement and any Statement of Work to any successor that acquires all or substantially all of the business or assets of Baker Tilly by way of merger, consolidation, other business reorganization, or the sale of interests or assets. (d) The validity, construction and enforcement of this Agreement shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois, without reference to its conflicts of laws principles, and any action (whether by arbitration or in court) arising under this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the State of Illinois. Both parties consent to the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in Illinois. (e) The parties hereto are independent contractors. Nothing herein shall be deemed to constitute either party as the representative, agent, partner or joint venture of the other. Baker Tilly shall have no authority to bind Client to any third-party agreement. Though the Services may include Baker Tilly’s advice and recommendations, all decisions regarding the implementation of such advice or recommendations shall be the responsibility of, and made by, Client. (f) The failure of either party at any time to enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement or a Statement of Work will in no way be construed as a waiver of such provisions and will not affect the right of party thereafter to enforce each and every provision thereof in accordance with its terms.
(g) Client acknowledges that: (i) Baker Tilly and Client may correspond or convey documentation via Internet e-mail unless Client expressly requests otherwise, (ii) neither party has control over the performance, reliability, availability or security of Internet e-mail, and (iii) Baker Tilly shall not be liable for any loss, damage, expense, harm or inconvenience resulting from the loss, delay, interception, corruption or alteration of any Internet e-mail. (h) Except to the extent expressly provided to the contrary, no third-party beneficiaries are intended under this Agreement. (i) The Services performed under this Agreement do not include the provision of legal advice and Baker Tilly makes no representations regarding questions of legal interpretation. Client should consult with its attorneys with respect to any legal matters or items that require legal interpretation under federal, state or other type of law or regulation. (j) Baker Tilly US, LLP and Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities provide professional services through an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable laws, regulations and professional standards. Baker Tilly US, LLP is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to clients. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities provide tax and business advisory services to their clients. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities are not licensed CPA firms. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiaries and Baker Tilly US, LLP are independent members of Baker Tilly International. Baker Tilly International Limited is an English company. Baker Tilly International provides no professional services to clients. Each -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 145
member firm is a separate and independent legal entity and each describes itself as such. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and Baker Tilly US, LLP are not Baker Tilly International’s agents and do not have the authority to bind Baker Tilly International or act on Baker Tilly International’s behalf. None of Baker Tilly International, Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP, Baker Tilly US, LLP, nor any of the other member firms of Baker Tilly International has any liability for each other’s acts or omissions. The name Baker Tilly and its associated logo is used under license from Baker Tilly International Limited.
Acknowledgement
The Parties’ authorized representatives have executed this Agreement as of the date(s) set forth below. The Parties represent that they have read and understood this Agreement and agree to be bound by it.
Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP Redwood Coast Energy Authority By: [ By: [2
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Scope of Work 1
Tax Credit Consulting
Eileen Verbeck
Redwood Coast Energy Authority
633 Third Street
Eureka, CA 95501
United States
Delivered via email – Eileen Verbeck – [email protected] RE: IRA Consulting Services – Tax Credit Consulting
The following is pursuant to the Master Services Agreement (“MSA”) effective _________, for services to be provided by Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP (“Baker Tilly” or “Consultant”) and Redwood Coast Energy Authority (the “Company” or “Client”).
Baker Tilly will perform the following services: Consulting Support Related to the Pursuit of the Federal Energy Tax Credits, the “Scope”.
Our Understanding:
The Client has built a microgrid comprised of solar and battery energy storage in California. The Client has built multiple Client-owned electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for its customers in their service area in California. The Client also plans to build additional Client-owned EV charging stations.
Collectively, the (1) microgrid project, (2) built EV charging station project, and (3) planned EV charging station project are referred to as “the Projects.” The Client is seeking support in understanding eligibility of the Projects to claim the Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
The Client is aware that it may be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit because of the Projects qualifying under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The Act includes tax provisions providing credits and incentives for the production and consumption of clean energy, carbon emissions reduction, electric vehicle purchases and, among other items, promoting domestic energy security.
Based upon initial discussions, the Client is interested in having Baker Tilly support its goal to preserve, enhance, and claim an Investment Tax Credit (ITC) from its Project. The following outlines Baker Tilly’s proposed approach to this engagement:
Scope, Objectives and Approach:
It is anticipated that this consulting project will be completed by providing verbal and/or written advice with regards to the Federal Tax Credit for the Project.
The scope may include the following:
1) Provide explanations rules and law under the Internal Revenue Code and Regulations related to eligibility of Section 48 ITC, Section 48E ITC, and Section 30C ITC. 2) Review Client-provided materials to evaluate Project eligibility, appropriate credit regimes, and factors which may impact applicable credit amount
3) Prepare eligibility memo for Client-defined Project(s) Note: Drafting of individual Project memorandums to support substantiation of all compliance -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&-
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requirements as part of tax credit workpaper documentation will be contracted under a separate SOW for the specified Project.
Project Timing, Phases and Budget:
The Project will commence upon execution of a formal engagement letter and applicable SOW, and subject to availability of requested information from the Client. Baker Tilly will perform the SOW no later than December 31, 2025, though this may be adjusted in writing by Baker Tilly in negotiation with Client.
Our fee for this engagement will be based on the number of hours expended at our standard billing rates or based on agreed-upon rates. Factors such as the complexity of the engagement, the condition and completeness of your records, the timely compilation by your staff of any information we have requested, the continuity of your personnel and their availability will have a bearing on the amount of time required to complete the engagement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the not-to-exceed amount for this engagement is $25,000.
The fees will be at billed at Baker Tilly’s standard billing rates based on actual time incurred according to the rate schedule set forth below. Based on our understanding, we expect the fee to be approximately $10,000 – $15,000 for the microgrid project, and approximately $5,000 – $7,500 for each EV charger project. If we expect the fee to exceed the fee expectation, we will provide you with a written notice and only proceed further upon your confirmation.
Standard Hourly Rates
Principals / Directors $
Senior Managers / Managers $
Consultants / Accountants $
Support / Municipal Bond Disclosure Specialists
Interns / Staff / Admin Support $
∗ Billing rates are subject to change periodically after outer date above due to changing requirements and economic conditions. T he fees billed will be the fees in place at the time services are provided. Actual fees will be based upon experience of the staff assigned and the complexity of the engagement.
Any out-of-scope fees will be at billed at Baker Tilly’s standard billing rates based on actual time incurred according to the rate schedule above.
Travel time and out-of-pocket expenses are in addition to these amounts, will be itemized separately, and will always be billed at actual cost with no mark-up. Travel time is billed at half Baker Tilly’s standard hourly rates.
Billing Procedures
You will receive a monthly statement showing the installment fees and any travel costs incurred in the prior month which is payable no later than 60 days after the invoice date. The account balance is due and payable on receipt of the invoice. All unpaid invoices will accrue 1% late payment charges monthly.
Nonattest Services
As part of this engagement, we will perform certain nonattest services. For purposes of the Agreement and this SOW, nonattest services include services that the Government Auditing Standards refers to as nonaudit services.
We will not perform any management functions or make management decisions on your behalf with respect to any nonattest services we provide.
In connection with our performance of any nonattest services, you agree that you will:
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> Continue to make all management decisions and perform all management functions, including approving all journal entries and general ledger classifications when they are submitted to you. > Designate an employee with suitable skill, knowledge, and/or experience, preferably within senior management, to oversee the services we perform.
> Evaluate the adequacy and results of the nonattest services we perform. > Accept responsibility for the results of our nonattest services. > Establish and maintain internal controls, including monitoring ongoing activities related to the nonattest function.
Conflicts of Interest
We are unaware of any additional conflicts of interest related to this SOW that exist at this time.
Termination
Notwithstanding termination provisions contained in the Agreement, this SOW is intended to be ongoing and applicable individually to specific services including financings, arbitrage computations, and/or continuing disclosure engagement, (“Sub-engagements”) as if they are the sole subject of the SOW. As such, termination may occur for a specific Sub-engagement without terminating the SOW itself. On termination of a Sub-engagement or the SOW, all fees and charges incurred prior to termination shall be paid promptly. Unless otherwise agreed to by the Client and Baker Tilly, the scope of services provided in a Sub-engagement performed under this SOW will terminate 60 days after completion of the services for such Sub-engagement.
Project Team
This work will be led by a cross functional advisory and tax Baker Tilly team, with members from our Manufacturing, Energy & Infrastructure, Real Estate and State and Local Government teams as necessary to complete the work, based on the Property Type seeking the tax credit.
Other Disclosures
During the course of the Agreement, Baker Tilly may interact with other Project participants (service providers, investors, lenders, funding parties, utilities, etc.) that have pre-existing client relationships with Baker Tilly. By signing this Agreement, the Client acknowledges the potential conflicts of interest that may arise. In the event of any such conflicts of interest, Baker Tilly shall immediately notify the Client of such circumstance.
Baker Tilly works with many clients that are involved in energy project development across a wide geographic region. The Client acknowledges by signing below that Baker Tilly is not exclusive in its relationship with the Client and that Baker Tilly may provide similar services to these separate clients, provided that it complies with all confidentiality and other professional obligations to the Client.
Baker Tilly does not draft legal documents, ensuring that operating and funding agreements are consistent with the Client’s intent and enforceable will be the responsibility of the Client’s law firm.
Engagement-Specific Terms and Conditions
The following terms and conditions are in addition to, and not in lieu of, the terms and conditions included in the Agreement to which this SOW is attached. Should there be any conflict between the terms of the Agreement and the terms listed below, the terms below shall govern.
1. Responsibilities of Client
a. To ensure an effective and efficient engagement, Client agrees to provide Baker Tilly with all information requested, in a timely manner, and to provide any reasonable assistance as may be required to properly perform the engagement. In performing services under this Agreement, -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 149
Baker Tilly will rely upon Client personnel for the accuracy and completeness of its records and all other information supplied to us, without independent investigation or verification. Inaccuracy, incompleteness, or tardiness in the delivery of information to Baker Tilly, whether or not Client personnel knew or should have known that such information was not complete, accurate or current, could have a material effect on tax returns, our conclusions and the fee for services. b. US Treasury Regulations require taxpayers to disclose any tax strategy or transaction that the IRS identifies as: 1) a Listed Transaction; 2) substantially similar to a Listed Transaction; or 3) any other Reportable Transaction. In addition, certain states have similar disclosure requirements. Noncompliance with these rules may result in significant penalties. Client agrees to inform Baker Tilly of participation in any such transactions. c. Client agrees to file with Client’s tax returns the forms as prepared by Baker Tilly. Client agrees that Baker Tilly assumes no responsibility and has no liability for any forms altered by Client prior to filing with the taxing jurisdiction. Client is responsible for the timely filing of the forms Baker Tilly prepares and agrees to inform us in writing of any failure to timely file the forms with Client’s related tax returns.
d. Most tax returns require signatures, under penalty of perjury, by the taxpayer or an officer of the taxpayer affirming that the tax returns and the accounting schedules and statements are true, correct and complete to the best of his or her knowledge. Client is responsible for understanding and agreeing with the various amounts, computations and statements made in the tax returns and accepts responsibility for the results of the tax services rendered. Baker Tilly’s services may include advice and recommendations, but all decisions in connection with the implementation of such advice and recommendations shall be the responsibility of, and made by, Client. Baker Tilly will not perform any management functions or make management decisions for Client in connection with this engagement.
e. Client is required to maintain and retain adequate documentation to support the tax returns as filed as penalties can be imposed by taxing authorities for the failure to produce adequate documentation supporting the items included in a tax return. Baker Tilly has no responsibility or liability for Client's failure to maintain adequate documentation. f. Official IRS guidance for the ITC has been issued as of the date of this SOW. Baker Tilly is performing the services consistent with current prevailing guidance and interpretation under the Inflation Reduction Act and One Big Beautiful Bill Act and will continue to monitor FAQs and subsequent guidance issued by the IRS. Client accepts and acknowledges that Baker Tilly makes no guarantees that the IRS will issue a tax credit and/or Client will receive or be able to utilize such tax credit.
2. Responsibilities of Baker Tilly
a. Baker Tilly's services under this Agreement are subject to and will be performed in accordance with Treasury Department Circular 230, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and other professional standards applicable to tax services. We disclaim all other warranties, either express or implied.
b. Baker Tilly will perform these services on the basis of the information you have provided and in consideration of the applicable tax laws, regulations and associated interpretations as of the date the services are provided. Tax laws and regulations and/or their interpretation are subject to change at any time, and such changes may be retroactive in effect and may be applicable to advice given or other services rendered before their effective dates. Baker Tilly has no -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 150
responsibility or liability for such changes occurring after the completion date of this engagement. c. Client acknowledges and agrees that any advice, recommendations, information or work product provided to Client by Baker Tilly in connection with this Agreement is for the sole use of Client and may not be relied upon by any third party. Baker Tilly has no liability or responsibility to any third parties as a result of this Agreement.
d. Tax returns and other filings are subject to examination by taxing authorities. Baker Tilly will be available to assist Client in the event of an audit of any issue for which Baker Tilly has provided services under this Agreement. Fees for these additional services will be communicated in a separate SOW.
e. The services performed under this Agreement do not include the provision of legal advice and Baker Tilly makes no representations regarding questions of legal interpretation. Client should consult with its attorneys with respect to any legal matters or items that require legal interpretation, under federal, state or other type of law or regulation. f. Baker Tilly may utilize the services of independent contractors in providing services to Client. All such third parties are bound by the same confidentiality requirements as Baker Tilly and its employees. Client hereby consents to disclosure of confidential information necessary to the provision of the related services.
g. Subject to the “Other Disclosures” section above and any other similar provisions regarding conflicts and professional responsibilities, nothing in this Agreement prevents Baker Tilly from providing services to other clients.
3. Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting
a. The Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) imposes new reporting requirements on most small businesses, including those that may be reported on Schedule C of the Form 1040. All domestic and foreign entities formed or registered to do business in the United States are subject to filing requirements unless they meet one of the explicitly stated exceptions. Affected companies will be required to submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (“BOI”) reporting form with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”). The report requires companies to provide identifying information on beneficial owners and company applicants. As of Jan. 1, 2024, filings for newly formed entities are due within 30 days of formation; however, the initial filing deadline for existing companies is Jan. 1, 2025. Companies are also required to file updated BOI reports. b. Consultations and preparation of reports related to the BOI reporting requirements are services that are considered to involve the practice of law. As such Baker Tilly will not be responsible for advising you regarding the legal or regulatory aspects of your company’s compliance with the CTA, nor will Baker Tilly be responsible for the preparation or submission of any BOI reports to FinCEN. If you have any questions regarding your compliance with the CTA, we encourage you to consult with qualified legal counsel.
4. Third Party Service Providers and Tax Return Information Disclosure Consent a. Baker Tilly is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of Client's tax return information. Baker Tilly is also committed to providing Client with comprehensive, integrated services that enhance and protect Client's value. To optimize Baker Tilly's service delivery and the results Baker Tilly is able to provide, Baker Tilly would like to obtain Client's consent to use and disclose Client's tax return information for various purposes of benefit to Client, as detailed -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 151
below.
b. For any business taxpayer subject to this Agreement, the Section 7216 consent is contained in the body of the letter immediately below. Please read the consent below carefully before executing. Client is not required to execute this consent to engage Baker Tilly’s tax return preparation services, and Baker Tilly is not conditioning Baker Tilly’s provision of services on Client’s consent. For the avoidance of doubt, by signing this SOW, Client is providing your consent to allow Baker Tilly to use the tax return information with respect to Client’s business for the purposes identified below. Client may request to limit the tax return information disclosed or used, and to limit the consented uses and disclosures. Client may terminate consent at any time by providing written notice to Baker Tilly.
I.R.C. § 7216 Client Consent to Disclosure and Use of Tax Return Information (Non-1040) I authorize Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP (“Baker Tilly”) to use and disclose all of Taxpayer’s tax return information for the purposes identified below. I authorize Baker Tilly to use Taxpayer’s tax return information for the following purposes:
• To identify and suggest useful information and services, including attest services, non-tax services such as audit services, financial services, investment advisory services, and consulting services, and additional tax services such as advanced federal and state income tax, indirect tax credits & incentives, international tax, and industry-specific services, and to determine whether such information and services would be valuable to you. • To aggregate and anonymize tax return information to analyze, deliver, support, optimize, communicate, and market our services and to allow us to provide you and others with other helpful information.
I authorize Baker Tilly to disclose Taxpayer’s tax return information to all Baker Tilly national and international affiliates (including officers, employees, or members thereof who may be located outside the United States; together, “Baker Tilly Entities”) and contractors inside and outside the United States providing administrative, tax return preparation and ancillary services (“Outsource Providers”) for the following purposes:
• To enable Baker Tilly Entities and Outsource Providers to provide administrative, tax return preparation and ancillary services for Baker Tilly on behalf of Taxpayer. • To enable Baker Tilly Entities to identify and suggest useful information and services, including attest services, non-tax services such as audit services, financial services, investment advisory services, and consulting services, and additional tax services such as advanced federal and state income tax, indirect tax credits & incentives, international tax, and industry-specific services, and to determine whether such information and services would be valuable to you.
This consent will remain in effect until and unless revoked by written notice of Taxpayer.
5. Copies of Our Work Product
You have the right to review and/or be supplied with copies of any and all tax planning or research memoranda and work papers prepared by our firm related to this engagement. The scope of this engagement is not intended to rise to the level at which we will issue a formal tax opinion to you.
Therefore, all written tax advice provided under this engagement letter will contain the following -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 152
legend:
Tax information, if any, contained in this communication was not intended or written to be used by any person for the purpose of avoiding penalties, nor should such information be construed as an opinion upon which any person may rely.
6. Audit Defense
Your returns may be selected for review by the taxing authorities. Any proposed adjustments by the examining agent are subject to certain rights of appeal. In the event of such government tax examination, we will be available upon request to represent you at our standard hourly rates. Please note we cannot make, nor provide, any guarantee with respect to any proposed adjustments by a taxing authority. Any such audit defense work shall be covered under the terms of a separate engagement letter.
7. Additional Work Due to Tax Law Changes
Congress and Treasury continue to revise the tax law, as well as issue additional guidance and rules relating to the law changes. Any such guidance or legislative changes have the potential to impact tax positions on your return and may require additional analysis and computations. Our fee associated with any additional time that we spend on such issues will be based on our standard hourly rates for the level of staff performing the services. Before we begin any incremental work, we will provide an estimate of the additional fees expected to be incurred.
8. Tax Return Preparer Standards, Reporting, Disclosure, Privacy, and Related Matters a. Prior to engaging our services in preparation of tax returns, it is important you are aware of the standards that will be applied to preparing, signing and filing such returns. Internal Revenue Code (IRC) section 6694 and the related Treasury Regulations provide that a tax return preparer may sign a tax return only if there is substantial authority for all tax positions reflected in the return, or alternatively, there is disclosure of any position that has a reasonable basis but lacks the support of substantial authority. This standard corresponds with the taxpayer standard that relates to the avoidance of a penalty for a substantial understatement of tax. Positions claimed on a tax return that lack a reasonable basis could subject taxpayers to a substantial understatement of tax penalty, even if such positions are disclosed on their returns. Professionals cannot sign returns with positions that lack a reasonable basis.
b. With respect to any transaction deemed to be a tax shelter there is a higher minimum standard of “more-likely-than-not” which must be satisfied for any benefits to be claimed on a tax return.
Disclosure of the position does not remove this minimum standard for tax shelter positions. c. As a result of the existence of these standards, our professional standards and related due diligence may require us to evaluate all positions to be reflected on your federal tax returns to determine if such positions meet the substantial authority standard discussed above. As noted above, certain positions may be required to be disclosed to the federal, and in some cases, the state tax authorities.
d. It is not possible for us to know in advance whether any positions to be reflected on your return may require additional analysis. Therefore, we cannot estimate in advance the additional amount of fees which may be associated with any such effort if it becomes necessary. We will, however, advise you of any positions which require additional analysis and discuss the associated fees with you prior to undertaking the additional effort required to reach a conclusion in compliance with -71:9436Ā.6;25782Ā0-)Ā,#/(""/ Ȁ"#+%Ȁ$$ (Ȁ'+&+Ȁ !, ,(%*.&&- 153
these standards.
e. The federal government requires U.S. persons which have any interest in, or signature authority over, a foreign bank, securities, or other financial account to report such interest on Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (formerly Form TD F 90-22.1), if the aggregate value of such accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year. U.S. persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. residents and entities including, but not limited to corporations, partnerships or limited liability companies created or organized in the U.S. or under the laws of the U.S., and trusts and estates formed under the laws of the U.S. Please inform Baker Tilly if Client has any foreign bank accounts, activities, or investments, so that Baker Tilly can discuss how it can help Client comply with the law.
f. Revised (IRC) section 7216 and the related Treasury Regulations prescribe a penalty for any tax return preparer that uses or discloses tax return information without securing the consent of the taxpayer prior to any such use or disclosure. Should Client request that any tax information be provided to a third party, Baker Tilly can provide the information directly to Client, and Client can provide the information to the third party, or Baker Tilly can provide the information directly to the third party. If Client requests that Baker Tilly provide the information directly to a third party, a specific and detailed written consent with Client's signature will be required to be furnished to Baker Tilly prior to the release of any tax return information. Baker Tilly will bill Client for the time necessary to draft the consent, obtain Client's signature and satisfy Client's request to provide tax information directly to a third party.
g. The advice Baker Tilly renders may result in one or more positions that will be reflected on Client's federal tax returns. Taxpayers will not be subject to an underpayment of tax penalty if each position taken on the return has substantial authority. Positions that lack substantial authority but have a reasonable basis may be claimed on the tax return if such positions are disclosed to the IRS. Positions that lack a reasonable basis claimed on a tax return could subject taxpayers to a substantial understatement of tax penalty, even if such positions are disclosed on their returns. The higher more-likely- than-not standard for reportable transactions remains.
Regardless of disclosure, any position or transaction deemed to be a reportable transaction must meet the more-likely-than-not confidence level in order to avoid penalties. Baker Tilly will inform Client of the level of confidence Baker Tilly may have regarding all such positions.
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If this SOW is acceptable, please sign below and return one copy to us for our files. We look forward to working with you on this important project.
Acknowledgement
The services and terms as set forth in this SOW are agreed to on behalf of the Client and Baker Tilly by their respective authorized representatives identified below:
Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP Redwood Coast Energy Authority Signature: Signature:
Name: Name:
Title: Title:
Date: Date:
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% !
#! "
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Sep 2025
Scope of Work 2 - Appendix A
Phases 1- 4 IRA Base Energy Credit Compliance
Elizabeth Burks
Redwood Coast Energy Authority
633 3rd Street
Eureka, California 95501
United States
Delivered via email – Elizabeth Burks – [email protected] RE: IRA Renewable Tax Credit Consulting Services – RCEA Microgrid Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP will perform the following services: Support Related to the Pursuit of the Federal Renewable Energy Tax Credit as part of the Inflation Reduction Act 2022 (“IRA22”, or the “Act”), the “Scope”.
The following is pursuant to the Master Services Agreement effective October 8, 2025, for services to be provided by Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP ("Baker Tilly" or “Consultant”) and Redwood Coast Energy Authority (“the Company” or “Client”).
Our Understanding:
Redwood Coast Energy Authority (The "Client"), has built a microgrid comprised of solar and battery energy storage in McKinleyville, CA that is approximately $6.3 million in value (The "Project").
The Project is began construction in September 2019 and was placed in service in September 2025. The Client is seeking the ITC for the project.
The Client is aware that it may be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit because of the Project qualifying under the IRA22. The Act’s “energy security” subtitle includes tax provisions providing credits and incentives for the production and consumption of clean energy, carbon emissions reduction, electric vehicle purchases and, among other items, promoting domestic energy security.
Based upon initial discussions, the Client is interested in having Baker Tilly support its goal to preserve, enhance, and claim an Investment Tax Credit (ITC) or a Production Tax Credit (PTC) from its Project to the Client. The following outlines Baker Tilly’s proposed approach to this engagement:
Scope, Objectives and Approach:
It is anticipated that this Project will be completed in phases from the initial pursuit of the IRA22 applicability through the construction of the Project. The scope of the Project includes four main phases to assist the Client with how to Determine, Preserve, Enhance and Claim the IRA 22 tax credit. Additional bonus criteria certifications, related to Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship, Energy Community, or Domestic Content, will be issued under separate engagement after Phase 1 as required for each Project as appendices B, C, & D (as applicable).
Docusign Envelope ID: 3789666B-2706-45AB-B399-4119F749EAF0 156
Appendix A
Sep 2025
Baker Tilly’s detailed approach/work plan for Appendix A can be summarized as follows:
Phase 1. Determining Project Eligibility for an IRA22 Tax Credit a. Provide assistance with interpretation and application of the IRA22 guidance to the Project’s set of facts and circumstances to the Project.
b. Understand the Property Type versus IRS rules.
c. Coordinate data request from Client.
d. Analyze the proposed sources and uses of funds, existing Project budgets and financial model prepared by management, and other relevant documents to gain an understanding of the Project on a preliminary basis.
e. Analyze the planned legal structure for ownership of the Project. f. Analyze Project documents that establish the eligible Project costs which are considered eligible for ITC or PTC (if applicable). This will include review of the Project’s process design, associated capitalized costs, use of any grant proceeds, timeline regarding construction and placed in service activities, and actions taken to-date that may support compliance with the IRS Begun Construction and placed in service requirements. g. Estimate the size range of the tax credit for the Project. h. Confirm if project is subject to Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship (PW&A) to obtain credit adder.
i. Confirm if the Energy Community adder could apply to the Project site. j. Confirm if the Domestic Content adder could apply to the Project. k. Prepare an updated written summary which outlines our initial views regarding the Project’s eligibility for the ITC or PTC, estimated ITC or PTC amounts, suggested steps to meet any Begun Construction and/or placed in service requirements under the IRA22 timeline requirements. This will include review of the Client’s ability to retain and utilize the ITC or PTC tax benefits.
Phase 2. Preserving the Tax Credit – Pre-Construction Communication to Contractors and Vendors
a. Identify all key Contractors and Vendors within scope for the Project Type and the total Project budget.
b. Analyze Project plans with Client Project manager as it relates to impacts on credit amount and key action steps for preserving the tax credit with use of prevailing wage and apprenticeship.
c. Assist Client to communicate to its Contractors and Vendors the compliance requirements of IRA22 to obtain the Domestic Content and/or Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship credit adders.
d. Review Property Type Sizing, as requested, to the extent it pertains to tax credit considerations.
e. Support the Client in assembling project labor agreements, preparing requests to Department of Labor for additional labor classifications, and communicating requests to contractors to set-up payroll data in LCP. f. Set-up the Contractors in the Baker Tilly and LCP portals for PW&A compliance program for the Project instance.
Phase 3. Establishing The Eligible Energy Basis – Post Construction a. Establish total cost basis of the Project and perform a cost segregation study to determine the Eligible Cost Basis of the Energy Property.
b. Review Client’s own expenditures, in addition to the Project vendors, for qualifying expenditures which could qualify as Energy Property.
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Sep 2025
c. Upon construction completion, perform a site visit (as needed) to complete the cost segregation study, delineate key process areas with upstream production facility that can be part of Energy Property, and document the Project on an as-built basis. d. From cost segregation study, categorize the depreciation lives of assets included in the study according to MACRS rules. This includes both capitalized items as well as items that may be expensed for tax purposes.
e. Document with vendors how the Project was placed in-service. f. Determine final tax credit eligible basis, subject to management review and agreement, for purposes of claiming the tax credit.
g. Issue a schedule of values showing the buildup of Energy Property basis along with other asset classifications from the fixed asset schedule for the final Project costs.
Phase 4. Claiming the Tax Credit - Project Workpaper File Generation a. Document compliance with “begun construction” tests as required by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) (if applicable).
b. Document compliance with “placed in service” tests as required by the IRS. c. Document Project Type eligibility based upon IRS code and other IRS and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) memoranda.
d. Document timing Tax Credit can be claimed or transferred. e. Provide any additional information which would help support the Project’s claiming a Tax Credit in the event of an IRS audit.
f. Provide the necessary workpapers to the Client to support its claim or transfer of the Tax Credit and assist with the preparation of the prescribed tax form.
Example supporting workpapers outlined in Addendum 1.
Additionally, Baker Tilly will assess the Project for eligible bonus credit criteria related to Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship (5X multiplier), Energy Community and the Domestic Content under separate appendices B, C, & D respectively (as applicable).
Project Timing, Phases and Budget:
The Project will commence upon execution of a formal engagement letter and applicable SOW, and subject to availability of requested information from the Client. Below are the work steps associated with the complete IRA compliance program:
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159
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Appendix A
Sep 2025
Project Team
This work will be led by a cross functional advisory and tax Baker Tilly team, with members from our Manufacturing, Energy & Infrastructure, Real Estate and State and Local Government teams as necessary to complete the work, based on the Property Type seeking the tax credit.
Other Disclosures
During the course of the Agreement, Baker Tilly may interact with other Project participants (service providers, investors, lenders, funding parties, utilities, etc.) that have pre-existing client relationships with Baker Tilly. By signing this Agreement, the Client acknowledges the potential conflicts of interest that may arise. In the event of any such conflicts of interest, Baker Tilly shall immediately notify the Client of such circumstance.
Baker Tilly works with many clients that are involved in energy project development across a wide geographic region. The Client acknowledges by signing below that Baker Tilly is not exclusive in its relationship with the Client and that Baker Tilly may provide similar services to these separate clients, provided that it complies with all confidentiality and other professional obligations to the Client.
Baker Tilly does not draft legal documents, ensuring that operating and funding agreements are consistent with the Client’s intent and enforceable will be the responsibility of the Client’s law firm.
Engagement-Specific Terms and Conditions
The following terms and conditions are in addition to, and not in lieu of, the terms and conditions included in the Agreement to which this SOW Appendix is attached. Should there be any conflict between the terms of the Agreement and the terms listed below, the terms below shall govern.
1. Responsibilities of Client
a. To ensure an effective and efficient engagement, Client agrees to provide Baker Tilly with all information requested, in a timely manner, and to provide any reasonable assistance as may be required to properly perform the engagement. In performing services under this Agreement, Baker Tilly will rely upon Client personnel for the accuracy and completeness of its records and all other information supplied to us, without independent investigation or verification. Inaccuracy, incompleteness, or tardiness in the delivery of information to Baker Tilly, whether or not Client personnel knew or should have known that such information was not complete, accurate or current, could have a material effect on tax returns, our conclusions and the fee for services. b. US Treasury Regulations require taxpayers to disclose any tax strategy or transaction that the IRS identifies as: 1) a Listed Transaction; 2) substantially similar to a Listed Transaction; or 3) any other Reportable Transaction. In addition, certain states have similar disclosure requirements. Noncompliance with these rules may result in significant penalties. Client agrees to inform Baker Tilly of participation in any such transactions. c. Client agrees to file with Client’s tax returns the forms as prepared by Baker Tilly. Client agrees that Baker Tilly assumes no responsibility and has no liability for any forms altered by Client prior to filing with the taxing jurisdiction. Client is responsible for the timely filing of the forms Baker Tilly prepares and agrees to inform us in writing of any failure to timely file the forms with Client’s related tax returns.
d. Most tax returns require signatures, under penalty of perjury, by the taxpayer or an officer of the taxpayer affirming that the tax returns and the accounting schedules and statements are true, correct and complete to the best of his or her knowledge. Client is responsible for understanding and agreeing with the various amounts, computations and statements made in the tax returns and accepts responsibility for the results of the tax services rendered. Baker Tilly’s services may Docusign Envelope ID: 3789666B-2706-45AB-B399-4119F749EAF0 161
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include advice and recommendations, but all decisions in connection with the implementation of such advice and recommendations shall be the responsibility of, and made by, Client. Baker Tilly will not perform any management functions or make management decisions for Client in connection with this engagement.
e. Client is required to maintain and retain adequate documentation to support the tax returns as filed as penalties can be imposed by taxing authorities for the failure to produce adequate documentation supporting the items included in a tax return. Baker Tilly has no responsibility or liability for Client's failure to maintain adequate documentation. f. Official IRS guidance for IRA22 has been issued as of the date of this SOW. Baker Tilly is performing the services consistent with current prevailing guidance and interpretation under IRA22 and will continue to monitor FAQs and subsequent guidance issued by the IRS. Client accepts and acknowledges that Baker Tilly makes no guarantees that the IRS will issue a tax credit and/or Client will receive or be able to utilize such tax credit.
2. Responsibilities of Baker Tilly
a. Baker Tilly's services under this Agreement are subject to and will be performed in accordance with Treasury Department Circular 230, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and other professional standards applicable to tax services. We disclaim all other warranties, either express or implied.
b. Baker Tilly will perform these services on the basis of the information you have provided and in consideration of the applicable tax laws, regulations and associated interpretations as of the date the services are provided. Tax laws and regulations and/or their interpretation are subject to change at any time, and such changes may be retroactive in effect and may be applicable to advice given or other services rendered before their effective dates. Baker Tilly has no responsibility or liability for such changes occurring after the completion date of this engagement. c. Client acknowledges and agrees that any advice, recommendations, information or work product provided to Client by Baker Tilly in connection with this Agreement is for the sole use of Client and may not be relied upon by any third party. Baker Tilly has no liability or responsibility to any third parties as a result of this Agreement.
d. Tax returns and other filings are subject to examination by taxing authorities. Baker Tilly will be available to assist Client in the event of an audit of any issue for which Baker Tilly has provided services under this Agreement. Fees for these additional services will be communicated in a separate SOW.
e. The services performed under this Agreement do not include the provision of legal advice and Baker Tilly makes no representations regarding questions of legal interpretation. Client should consult with its attorneys with respect to any legal matters or items that require legal interpretation, under federal, state or other type of law or regulation. f. Baker Tilly may utilize the services of independent contractors in providing services to Client. All such third parties are bound by the same confidentiality requirements as Baker Tilly and its employees. Client hereby consents to disclosure of confidential information necessary to the provision of the related services.
g. Subject to the “Other Disclosures” section above and any other similar provisions regarding conflicts and professional responsibilities, nothing in this Agreement prevents Baker Tilly from providing services to other clients.
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Sep 2025
3. Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting
a. The Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) imposes new reporting requirements on most small businesses, including those that may be reported on Schedule C of the Form 1040. All domestic and foreign entities formed or registered to do business in the United States are subject to filing requirements unless they meet one of the explicitly stated exceptions. Affected companies will be required to submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (“BOI”) reporting form with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”). The report requires companies to provide identifying information on beneficial owners and company applicants. As of Jan. 1, 2024, filings for newly formed entities are due within 30 days of formation; however, the initial filing deadline for existing companies is Jan. 1, 2025. Companies are also required to file updated BOI reports. b. Consultations and preparation of reports related to the BOI reporting requirements are services that are considered to involve the practice of law. As such Baker Tilly will not be responsible for advising you regarding the legal or regulatory aspects of your company’s compliance with the CTA, nor will Baker Tilly be responsible for the preparation or submission of any BOI reports to FinCEN. If you have any questions regarding your compliance with the CTA, we encourage you to consult with qualified legal counsel.
4. Third Party Service Providers and Tax Return Information Disclosure Consent a. Baker Tilly is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of Client's tax return information. Baker Tilly is also committed to providing Client with comprehensive, integrated services that enhance and protect Client's value. To optimize Baker Tilly's service delivery and the results Baker Tilly is able to provide, Baker Tilly would like to obtain Client's consent to use and disclose Client's tax return information for various purposes of benefit to Client, as detailed below.
b. For any business taxpayer subject to this Agreement, the Section 7216 consent is contained in the body of the letter immediately below. Please read the consent below carefully before executing. Client is not required to execute this consent to engage Baker Tilly’s tax return preparation services, and Baker Tilly is not conditioning Baker Tilly’s provision of services on Client’s consent. For the avoidance of doubt, by signing this SOW, Client is providing your consent to allow Baker Tilly to use the tax return information with respect to Client’s business for the purposes identified below. Client may request to limit the tax return information disclosed or used, and to limit the consented uses and disclosures. Client may terminate consent at any time by providing written notice to Baker Tilly.
I.R.C. § 7216 Client Consent to Disclosure and Use of Tax Return Information (Non-1040) I authorize Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP (“Baker Tilly”) to use and disclose all of Taxpayer’s tax return information for the purposes identified below. I authorize Baker Tilly to use Taxpayer’s tax return information for the following purposes:
• To identify and suggest useful information and services, including attest services, non-tax services such as audit services, financial services, investment advisory services, and consulting services, and additional tax services such as advanced federal and state income tax, indirect tax credits & incentives, international tax, and industry-specific services, and to determine whether such information and services would be valuable to you.
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• To aggregate and anonymize tax return information to analyze, deliver, support, optimize, communicate, and market our services and to allow us to provide you and others with other helpful information.
I authorize Baker Tilly to disclose Taxpayer’s tax return information to all Baker Tilly national and international affiliates (including officers, employees, or members thereof who may be located outside the United States; together, “Baker Tilly Entities”) and contractors inside and outside the United States providing administrative, tax return preparation and ancillary services (“Outsource Providers”) for the following purposes:
• To enable Baker Tilly Entities and Outsource Providers to provide administrative, tax return preparation and ancillary services for Baker Tilly on behalf of Taxpayer. • To enable Baker Tilly Entities to identify and suggest useful information and services, including attest services, non-tax services such as audit services, financial services, investment advisory services, and consulting services, and additional tax services such as advanced federal and state income tax, indirect tax credits & incentives, international tax, and industry-specific services, and to determine whether such information and services would be valuable to you.
This consent will remain in effect until and unless revoked by written notice of Taxpayer.
5. Copies of Our Work Product
You have the right to review and/or be supplied with copies of any and all tax planning or research memoranda and work papers prepared by our firm related to this engagement. The scope of this engagement is not intended to rise to the level at which we will issue a formal tax opinion to you.
Therefore, all written tax advice provided under this engagement letter will contain the following legend:
Tax information, if any, contained in this communication was not intended or written to be used by any person for the purpose of avoiding penalties, nor should such information be construed as an opinion upon which any person may rely.
6. Audit Defense
Your returns may be selected for review by the taxing authorities. Any proposed adjustments by the examining agent are subject to certain rights of appeal. In the event of such government tax examination, we will be available upon request to represent you at our standard hourly rates. Please note we cannot make, nor provide, any guarantee with respect to any proposed adjustments by a taxing authority. Any such audit defense work shall be covered under the terms of a separate engagement letter.
7. Additional Work Due to Tax Law Changes
Congress and Treasury continue to revise the tax law, as well as issue additional guidance and rules relating to the law changes. Any such guidance or legislative changes have the potential to impact tax positions on your return and may require additional analysis and computations. Our fee associated with any additional time that we spend on such issues will be based on our standard hourly rates for the level of staff performing the services. Before we begin any incremental work, we will provide an estimate of the additional fees expected to be incurred.
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Sep 2025
8. Tax Return Preparer Standards, Reporting, Disclosure, Privacy, and Related Matters a. Prior to engaging our services in preparation of tax returns, it is important you are aware of the standards that will be applied to preparing, signing and filing such returns. Internal Revenue Code (IRC) section 6694 and the related Treasury Regulations provide that a tax return preparer may sign a tax return only if there is substantial authority for all tax positions reflected in the return, or alternatively, there is disclosure of any position that has a reasonable basis but lacks the support of substantial authority. This standard corresponds with the taxpayer standard that relates to the avoidance of a penalty for a substantial understatement of tax. Positions claimed on a tax return that lack a reasonable basis could subject taxpayers to a substantial understatement of tax penalty, even if such positions are disclosed on their returns. Professionals cannot sign returns with positions that lack a reasonable basis.
b. With respect to any transaction deemed to be a tax shelter there is a higher minimum standard of “more-likely-than-not” which must be satisfied for any benefits to be claimed on a tax return.
Disclosure of the position does not remove this minimum standard for tax shelter positions. c. As a result of the existence of these standards, our professional standards and related due diligence may require us to evaluate all positions to be reflected on your federal tax returns to determine if such positions meet the substantial authority standard discussed above. As noted above, certain positions may be required to be disclosed to the federal, and in some cases, the state tax authorities.
d. It is not possible for us to know in advance whether any positions to be reflected on your return may require additional analysis. Therefore, we cannot estimate in advance the additional amount of fees which may be associated with any such effort if it becomes necessary. We will, however, advise you of any positions which require additional analysis and discuss the associated fees with you prior to undertaking the additional effort required to reach a conclusion in compliance with these standards.
e. The federal government requires U.S. persons which have any interest in, or signature authority over, a foreign bank, securities, or other financial account to report such interest on Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (formerly Form TD F 90-22.1), if the aggregate value of such accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year. U.S. persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. residents and entities including, but not limited to corporations, partnerships or limited liability companies created or organized in the U.S. or under the laws of the U.S., and trusts and estates formed under the laws of the U.S. Please inform Baker Tilly if Client has any foreign bank accounts, activities, or investments, so that Baker Tilly can discuss how it can help Client comply with the law.
f. Revised (IRC) section 7216 and the related Treasury Regulations prescribe a penalty for any tax return preparer that uses or discloses tax return information without securing the consent of the taxpayer prior to any such use or disclosure. Should Client request that any tax information be provided to a third party, Baker Tilly can provide the information directly to Client, and Client can provide the information to the third party, or Baker Tilly can provide the information directly to the third party. If Client requests that Baker Tilly provide the information directly to a third party, a specific and detailed written consent with Client's signature will be required to be furnished to Baker Tilly prior to the release of any tax return information. Baker Tilly will bill Client for the time necessary to draft the consent, obtain Client's signature and satisfy Client's request to provide tax information directly to a third party.
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g. The advice Baker Tilly renders may result in one or more positions that will be reflected on Client's federal tax returns. Taxpayers will not be subject to an underpayment of tax penalty if each position taken on the return has substantial authority. Positions that lack substantial authority but have a reasonable basis may be claimed on the tax return if such positions are disclosed to the IRS. Positions that lack a reasonable basis claimed on a tax return could subject taxpayers to a substantial understatement of tax penalty, even if such positions are disclosed on their returns. The higher more-likely- than-not standard for reportable transactions remains.
Regardless of disclosure, any position or transaction deemed to be a reportable transaction must meet the more-likely-than-not confidence level in order to avoid penalties. Baker Tilly will inform Client of the level of confidence Baker Tilly may have regarding all such positions.
9. Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship Bonus Compliance
The following applies to the extent you engage Baker Tilly for Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship Bonus Compliance service as further specified in Appendix B (Phase 4.1). a. You acknowledge that in order to provide the Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship Bonus Compliance services to you, Baker Tilly may provide you access to certain online software for purposes of uploading data and documentation (the “PW&A Portal”). Such PW&A Portal shall be considered an Online Offering.
b. As a condition of accessing and using the PW&A Portal, in addition to any applicable Online Terms as such term is defined in the Agreement, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
i. You are solely responsible for compliance with all applicable laws related to the use of the PW&A Portal, and Baker Tilly shall have no liability for your input of data or use of the PW&A Portal. You agree that you (a) will confirm the accuracy of any bulk upload/API/data migration/auto-geo assignment integration into the PW&A Portal, and (b) further understand and agree that bulk uploads/API/data migration/auto-geo assignments are effective only as of the date of the upload(s)/migration(s). It is your responsibility to provide updated data to the PW&A Portal to the extent necessary.
You accept that auto- geo assignments, based upon the coordinates in the KML supplied by you may have auto-correction applied to the file to close a boundary if there are any incomplete polygons. Furthermore, a third-party system is utilized to obtain geographical coordinates that are used to determine if a worker’s address falls within the boundaries defined by the client provided KML-file. Neither Baker Tilly nor third party service providers guarantee accuracy of the third-party system. You agree to not directly send any personally identifiable information by email or otherwise, except through the PW&A Portal.
ii. You retain sole responsibility for: (a) all data, including its content and use; (b) all information, instructions, and materials provided by you or on your behalf of in connection with the PW&A Portal; (c) your information technology infrastructure, including computers, software, databases, electronic systems (including database management systems), and networks, whether operated directly by you or through the use of third- party services; (d) the security and use of your access credentials; and (e) all access to and use of the PW&A Portal, including all results obtained from, and all conclusions, decisions, and actions based on, such access or use.
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Sep 2025
10. Domestic Content Certification; Confidentiality, Disclosures, and Disclaimers The following applies to the extent you engage Baker Tilly for Domestic Content Compliance services as further specified in Appendix D (Phase 4.3).
a. As an express condition to Baker Tilly providing the Domestic Content Compliance Services, you agree to the following:
i. Baker Tilly will not independently verify the information you provide. ii. Baker Tilly is not responsible for or liable for incorrect, inaccurate, or incomplete information you provide, and shall be entitled to rely on such information without further examination.
iii. Baker Tilly does not and cannot guarantee acceptance and granting of such domestic content tax credit, and you acknowledge and accept the risk that taxation authorities and/or courts may find that your clients are not entitled to the bonus tax credit related to domestic content or may assess interest and penalties owed by your clients as a result of the loss of tax credit.
iv. You will indemnify, defend, and hold Baker Tilly harmless from and against any penalties, fines, losses, liabilities, or other damages incurred by Baker Tilly related to or arising from incorrect information you provide, including, but not limited to, penalties, fines, losses, liabilities, or other damages incurred by Baker Tilly or the Project Owner client as a result of such information.
If this SOW Appendix is acceptable, please sign below and return one copy to us for our files. We look forward to working with you on this important project.
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Sep 2025
Acknowledgement
The services and terms as set forth in this SOW Appendix are agreed to on behalf of the Client and Baker Tilly by their respective authorized representatives identified below:
Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP Redwood Coast Energy Authority Signature: Signature:
Name: Name:
Title: Title:
Date: Date:
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Addendum 1 to Appendix A
Addendum 1: Phase 4 Example Workpaper Exhibits: (as applicable) o Exhibit A – Begun Construction Safe Harbor report.
o Exhibit B – Production and Consumption report
o Exhibit C – Energy Eligible Basis report
o
Exhibit D – Tax Forms
▪ Exhibit D.1 – Election statement
▪ Exhibit D.2 – Tax Filing Forms
▪ Exhibit D.3 – Pre-filing registration
▪ Exhibit D.4 – Election to transfer credits.
▪ Exhibit D.5 – Election for direct pay
o Exhibit E – Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship Compliance and Documentation o Exhibit F – Energy Community Compliance
o Exhibit G – Domestic Content Compliance and Documentation o Exhibit H – IRS Project Credit Allocation letter (48C/Environmental Justice) o Exhibit I – Credit Summary
Type %
Base Energy Credit Energy Type 6%
PW&A Y 30%
Domestic Content N 0%
Energy Community Y 10%
Total Credit % 40%
Project Cost $XX,000,000 From Exhibit C
Eligible Energy Property $ X,000,000 From Exhibit C
Total Credit Value $X,X00,000
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4.4 Tax-Exempt Compliance Form 990-T
Elizabeth Burks
Redwood Coast Energy Authority
633 3rd Street
Eureka, California 95501
United States
RE: Engagement Letter for Tax Compliance Services (Exempt Organization) – 2025 RCEA Microgrid Dear Elizabeth Burks:
Thank you for allowing Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP (“Baker Tilly”, “we”, “our”) to serve as your tax accountants and advisors.
This Appendix E and the Master Services Agreement (“MSA”) effective October 8, 2025 set forth the understanding of the nature and scope of the services to be performed and the fees we will charge for these services. In addition, this letter delineates the responsibilities of Baker Tilly and Redwood Coast Energy Authority in connection with the services to be provided under this engagement.
Summary of Services
We will prepare and sign as preparer the federal Form 990-T for the tax year beginning January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025. The Form 990-T is being filed to claim the direct pay tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
The scope of our work does not include an analysis as to whether any of your activities constitute an unrelated trade or business. If you are engaging in any unrelated business income activities, it is your responsibility to notify us so we can determine whether these activities are required to be reported as well.
Our work in connection with preparing your return does not include any procedures designed to assure continued exempt status of your organization. Exempt organizations are at risk of losing exempt status if they engage in transactions that are considered private benefit or private inurement transactions. The client organization and its officers may be subject to certain penalties for transactions that result in an excess benefit transaction pursuant to the intermediate sanctions rules as provided in the Internal Revenue Code and regulations promulgated thereunder. Our work in connection with preparing your return does not include any procedures designed to assure that private benefit and private inurement transactions do not exist; and does not assure the prevention of intermediate sanctions.
In certain cases, Form 990-T is subject to public disclosure and therefore is open to review by the general public. You have the final responsibility for reviewing each item on your return which may be subject to public disclosure. If a special analysis of private benefit, private inurement or intermediate sanctions is requested by the Organization, such services will require a separate engagement letter specifically identifying the scope of such procedures.
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Unless otherwise agreed to in writing, you will be responsible for preparing and filing all other tax or information returns required to be filed with the applicable authorities including, for example, city and county income or gross receipts filings, payroll tax filings, sales and use tax filings, information reporting filings, secretary of state annual corporate renewal forms, etc.
Additional Services
During the time period covered by this Appendix E you may request that we provide services outside the original scope of this engagement. Any such “Additional Services” may be provided under the authority of the MSA and this Appendix E where the fee associated with the requested project or service is expected to be less than $10,000, provided it is not a specifically “Out of Scope Service.” Out of Scope Services and tax consulting services that require a separate engagement letter, regardless of the anticipated fee, include but are not limited to:
• Amended tax filings for any prior tax years, including the tax year for this engagement letter. • Asset and investment sale consultations involving more than $100,000 in proceeds. • Consulting on current and future transactions, including structuring and due diligence. • Consultations related to the formation and/or restructuring of business holdings. • R&E credit consulting and/or computations
• State nexus studies
• Federal or state tax controversy assistance
• International tax
• Organizational tax issues
Any professional services outside the scope of this Appendix E as defined above must be mutually agreed to and delineated in written or electronic communication.
If you request that we provide personal financial planning services, such services are subject to Additional Disclosures, which are enclosed with this letter.
Your Assistance
It is your responsibility to provide all the information required for the preparation of complete and accurate returns. You agree to bring to our attention any matters that may reasonably be expected to require further consideration to determine the proper tax treatment of such matters. You also agree to bring to our attention any changes in the information as originally provided to us as soon as such information becomes available.
You represent that the information you are supplying to us is accurate and complete to the best of your knowledge. and that any expenses for meals, entertainment, travel, business gifts, charitable contributions, dues and memberships, vehicle use, etc. are supported by records as required by law. You should retain all documents, canceled checks and other data that support income and deductions reported on your returns. These may be necessary to prove the accuracy and completeness of the returns to a taxing authority. You have the final responsibility for the income tax returns and, therefore, you should review them carefully before you sign them. We will not audit or otherwise verify the data you submit, although it may be necessary to ask you to clarify some of the information. To the extent information that you provide is incorrect, incomplete, or has other errors, we are not responsible for how those errors impact the correctness of the return. Our work in connection with the preparation of your income tax and/or information returns does not include any procedures designed to discover defalcations, irregularities or abusive tax shelter transactions, should any exist.
Timing
We will complete the preparation of the tax return so it can be timely filed by May 15, 2026 or filed by the extended due date of the respective tax return. In the event unforeseen circumstances occur that impact our ability to meet the final completion date, we will contact you to discuss an acceptable revised completion date.
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in the tax returns and accepts responsibility for the results of the tax services rendered.
Baker Tilly’s services may include advice and recommendations, but all decisions in connection with the implementation of such advice and recommendations shall be the responsibility of, and made by, Client. Baker Tilly will not perform any management functions or make management decisions for Client in connection with this engagement. e. Client is required to maintain and retain adequate documentation to support the tax returns as filed as penalties can be imposed by taxing authorities for the failure to produce adequate documentation supporting the items included in a tax return. Baker Tilly has no responsibility or liability for Client's failure to maintain adequate documentation. f. Official IRS guidance for IRA22 has been issued as of the date of this SOW. Baker Tilly is performing the services consistent with current prevailing guidance and interpretation under IRA22 and will continue to monitor FAQs and subsequent guidance issued by the IRS. Client accepts and acknowledges that Baker Tilly makes no guarantees that the IRS will issue a tax credit and/or Client will receive or be able to utilize such tax credit.
2. Responsibilities of Baker Tilly
a. Baker Tilly's services under this Agreement are subject to and will be performed in accordance with Treasury Department Circular 230, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and other professional standards applicable to tax services. We disclaim all other warranties, either express or implied. b. Baker Tilly will perform these services on the basis of the information you have provided and in consideration of the applicable tax laws, regulations and associated interpretations as of the date the services are provided. Tax laws and regulations and/or their interpretation are subject to change at any time, and such changes may be retroactive in effect and may be applicable to advice given or other services rendered before their effective dates. Baker Tilly has no responsibility or liability for such changes occurring after the completion date of this engagement.
c. Client acknowledges and agrees that any advice, recommendations, information or work product provided to Client by Baker Tilly in connection with this Agreement is for the sole use of Client and may not be relied upon by any third party. Baker Tilly has no liability or responsibility to any third parties as a result of this Agreement. d. Tax returns and other filings are subject to examination by taxing authorities. Baker Tilly will be available to assist Client in the event of an audit of any issue for which Baker Tilly has provided services under this Agreement. Fees for these additional services will be communicated in a separate SOW.
e. The services performed under this Agreement do not include the provision of legal advice and Baker Tilly makes no representations regarding questions of legal interpretation. Client should consult with its attorneys with respect to any legal matters or items that require legal interpretation, under federal, state or other type of law or regulation. f. Baker Tilly may utilize the services of independent contractors in providing services to Client.
All such third parties are bound by the same confidentiality requirements as Baker Tilly and its employees. Client hereby consents to disclosure of confidential information necessary to the provision of the related services.
g. Subject to the “Other Disclosures” section above and any other similar provisions regarding conflicts and professional responsibilities, nothing in this Agreement prevents Baker Tilly from providing services to other clients.
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3. Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting
a. The Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) imposes new reporting requirements on most small businesses, including those that may be reported on Schedule C of the Form 1040. All domestic and foreign entities formed or registered to do business in the United States are subject to filing requirements unless they meet one of the explicitly stated exceptions.
Affected companies will be required to submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (“BOI”) reporting form with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”). The report requires companies to provide identifying information on beneficial owners and company applicants. As of Jan. 1, 2024, filings for newly formed entities are due within 30 days of formation; however, the initial filing deadline for existing companies is Jan. 1, 2025.
Companies are also required to file updated BOI reports. b. Consultations and preparation of reports related to the BOI reporting requirements are services that are considered to involve the practice of law. As such Baker Tilly will not be responsible for advising you regarding the legal or regulatory aspects of your company’s compliance with the CTA, nor will Baker Tilly be responsible for the preparation or submission of any BOI reports to FinCEN. If you have any questions regarding your compliance with the CTA, we encourage you to consult with qualified legal counsel.
4. Third Party Service Providers and Tax Return Information Disclosure Consent a. Baker Tilly is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of Client's tax return information. Baker Tilly is also committed to providing Client with comprehensive, integrated services that enhance and protect Client's value. To optimize Baker Tilly's service delivery and the results Baker Tilly is able to provide, Baker Tilly would like to obtain Client's consent to use and disclose Client's tax return information for various purposes of benefit to Client, as detailed below.
b. For any business taxpayer subject to this Agreement, the Section 7216 consent is contained in the body of the letter immediately below. Please read the consent below carefully before executing. Client is not required to execute this consent to engage Baker Tilly’s tax return preparation services, and Baker Tilly is not conditioning Baker Tilly’s provision of services on Client’s consent. For the avoidance of doubt, by signing this SOW, Client is providing your consent to allow Baker Tilly to use the tax return information with respect to Client’s business for the purposes identified below. Client may request to limit the tax return information disclosed or used, and to limit the consented uses and disclosures. Client may terminate consent at any time by providing written notice to Baker Tilly.
I.R.C. § 7216 Client Consent to Disclosure and Use of Tax Return Information (Non-1040) I authorize Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP (“Baker Tilly”) to use and disclose all of Taxpayer’s tax return information for the purposes identified below. I authorize Baker Tilly to use Taxpayer’s tax return information for the following purposes:
• To identify and suggest useful information and services, including attest services, non-tax services such as audit services, financial services, investment advisory services, and consulting services, and additional tax services such as advanced federal and state income tax, indirect tax credits & incentives, international tax, and industry-specific services, and to determine whether such information and services would be valuable to you.
• To aggregate and anonymize tax return information to analyze, deliver, support, optimize, communicate, and market our services and to allow us to provide you and others with other helpful information.
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I authorize Baker Tilly to disclose Taxpayer’s tax return information to all Baker Tilly national and international affiliates (including officers, employees, or members thereof who may be located outside the United States; together, “Baker Tilly Entities”) and contractors inside and outside the United States providing administrative, tax return preparation and ancillary services (“Outsource Providers”) for the following purposes:
• To enable Baker Tilly Entities and Outsource Providers to provide administrative, tax return preparation and ancillary services for Baker Tilly on behalf of Taxpayer. • To enable Baker Tilly Entities to identify and suggest useful information and services, including attest services, non-tax services such as audit services, financial services, investment advisory services, and consulting services, and additional tax services such as advanced federal and state income tax, indirect tax credits & incentives, international tax, and industry-specific services, and to determine whether such information and services would be valuable to you.
This consent will remain in effect until and unless revoked by written notice of Taxpayer.
5. Copies of Our Work Product
You have the right to review and/or be supplied with copies of any and all tax planning or research memoranda and work papers prepared by our firm related to this engagement. The scope of this engagement is not intended to rise to the level at which we will issue a formal tax opinion to you.
Therefore, all written tax advice provided under this engagement letter will contain the following legend:
Tax information, if any, contained in this communication was not intended or written to be used by any person for the purpose of avoiding penalties, nor should such information be construed as an opinion upon which any person may rely.
6. Audit Defense
Your returns may be selected for review by the taxing authorities. Any proposed adjustments by the examining agent are subject to certain rights of appeal. In the event of such government tax examination, we will be available upon request to represent you at our standard hourly rates.
Please note we cannot make, nor provide, any guarantee with respect to any proposed adjustments by a taxing authority. Any such audit defense work shall be covered under the terms of a separate engagement letter.
7. Additional Work Due to Tax Law Changes
Congress and Treasury continue to revise the tax law, as well as issue additional guidance and rules relating to the law changes. Any such guidance or legislative changes have the potential to impact tax positions on your return and may require additional analysis and computations. Our fee associated with any additional time that we spend on such issues will be based on our standard hourly rates for the level of staff performing the services. Before we begin any incremental work, we will provide an estimate of the additional fees expected to be incurred.
8. Tax Return Preparer Standards, Reporting, Disclosure, Privacy, and Related Matters a. Prior to engaging our services in preparation of tax returns, it is important you are aware of the standards that will be applied to preparing, signing and filing such returns. Internal Revenue Code (IRC) section 6694 and the related Treasury Regulations provide that a tax Docusign Envelope ID: 3789666B-2706-45AB-B399-4119F749EAF0 175
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return preparer may sign a tax return only if there is substantial authority for all tax positions reflected in the return, or alternatively, there is disclosure of any position that has a reasonable basis but lacks the support of substantial authority. This standard corresponds with the taxpayer standard that relates to the avoidance of a penalty for a substantial understatement of tax. Positions claimed on a tax return that lack a reasonable basis could subject taxpayers to a substantial understatement of tax penalty, even if such positions are disclosed on their returns. Professionals cannot sign returns with positions that lack a reasonable basis.
b. With respect to any transaction deemed to be a tax shelter there is a higher minimum standard of “more-likely-than-not” which must be satisfied for any benefits to be claimed on a tax return. Disclosure of the position does not remove this minimum standard for tax shelter positions.
c. As a result of the existence of these standards, our professional standards and related due diligence may require us to evaluate all positions to be reflected on your federal tax returns to determine if such positions meet the substantial authority standard discussed above. As noted above, certain positions may be required to be disclosed to the federal, and in some cases, the state tax authorities.
d. It is not possible for us to know in advance whether any positions to be reflected on your return may require additional analysis. Therefore, we cannot estimate in advance the additional amount of fees which may be associated with any such effort if it becomes necessary. We will, however, advise you of any positions which require additional analysis and discuss the associated fees with you prior to undertaking the additional effort required to reach a conclusion in compliance with these standards.
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Appendix E
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Director
BAKER TILLY ADVISORY GROUP, LP
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182
Staff Report
Agenda Item # 13.3
Information
Agenda Date January 22, 2026
To Board of Directors
Prepared by Stephen Kullmann, Demand-Side Management Director Roku Fukui, Demand-Side Management Manager
Subject Local Government Partnership Change Order 2026-2027 Summary
Since its establishment as a Joint Powers Agency, RCEA has maintained a longstanding partnership with PG&E to implement energy efficiency and support programs for Humboldt County customers. RCEA’s current PG&E-funded program is the Local Government Partnership (LGP), administered under the program named Redwood Coast Energy Watch. The current LGP contract expired in December 2026, and an extension is proposed to ensure continuity of program services.
The proposed change order includes the following elements:
1. Extend the contract term by an additional two years, through December 2027;
2. Increase PG&E funding to RCEA by $799,992 for the two-year extension period;
3. Authorize revisions to the Key Performance Indicators to better align program metrics with customer needs; and
4. Update the Data Protection and Cybersecurity provisions to align with PG&E’s new format and requirements.
Approval of this contract extension will enable RCEA to continue providing uninterrupted services to customers. The proposed updates to the Key Performance Indicators are intended to shift program emphasis toward service delivery outcomes rather than administrative metric tracking.
Background
The LGP is principally intended to serve local government entities, including public agencies, as well as Tribes, schools, and related public-serving institutions. In addition, the program provides services to rural and hard-to-reach commercial customers.
The LGP is classified as a non-resource program, meaning energy savings are realized through technical assistance and programmatic support rather than through the direct installation of energy efficiency measures or the provision of financial incentives. Program activities include, but are not limited 183
to, energy assessments, strategic planning, assistance with grant and financing applications, capacity building, project management, and referrals to resource programs.
The original contract term commenced in July 2020, with an extension from 2023 to 2025. This action authorizes a change order to extend the contract for an additional two-year period, from January 2026 through December 2027, with a total authorized budget of $799,992 for the extension period.
This program will integrate with and collaborate closely with NREN programs, specifically the Commercial Resource Acquisition Program and the Public Equity Program.
Alignment with RCEA’s Strategic Plan
RCEA’s Redwood Coast Energy Watch program directly advances multiple strategies identified in RCEA Strategic Plan. In particular, the program supports:
• 2.1.1 Support Member Agency and Local Government Management by providing technical assistance, planning support, and project management services to public agencies and other public-sector partners;
• 2.1.2 Support Implementation of Codes and Standards through guidance on energy code compliance, building performance requirements, and best practices for public facilities; • 2.1.3 Assist with Facility Benchmarking by helping agencies track, analyze, and interpret energy use data to inform operational and capital planning decisions; and • 2.1.4 Perform Energy Assessments by conducting on-site and remote assessments that identify energy efficiency, electrification, and resiliency opportunities, enabling informed investment and implementation across local government facilities.
Financial Impact
This contract amendment has a positive financial impact on RCEA, with an additional $799,992 in program funding from PG&E over the course of 2 years.
Staff Recommendation
Approve a Change Order to the PG&E Local Government Partnership Contract to extend the term through 2027, increase the budget by $799,992, and make amendments to the program design and authorize the Executive Director to execute all applicable documents after review and approval of RCEA General Counsel.
Attachments
PG&E Local Government Partnership slides will be presented at the Board of Directors meeting. 184
LOCAL
GOVERNMENT
PARTNERSHIP (LGP)
Contract Amendment
Staff Report
1/22/2026
Completed between July 2023 -Dec 2025
Key Performance Indicators
Key Performance
Indicators (KPIs)
July 2023- Dec
2025
Public Project
Management 118
Benchmarking 25
Public Leads 34
Non-Res Leads 53
Public Contacts 125
Non-Res Contacts 780
Public/ Non-Res
Assessments 155
Educational
Activities 22
Sector Breakdown
53 98
9 53
9 98
Public Tribal Commercial
Location Number of Assessments
Eureka 64
Arcata 22
Fortuna 14
McKinleyville 14
Ferndale 6
Garberville 6
Redway 6
Loleta 4
Whitethorn 4
Hoopa 3
Blue Lake 2
Bridgeville 2
Samoa 2
Willow Creek 2
Happy Camp 1
Myers Flat 1
Orick 1
Orleans 1
Petrolia 1
Rio Dell 1
Salyer 1
Weitchpec 1
Westhaven 1
2025 Public Sector Highlights
Fire Stations
• Energy Assessment completed at 17 rural fire stations • Funds from 2 grants combined: CA Office of Planning & Research and Regional Resilience Grant Program
• Procurement complete for solar + storage
City of Arcata - Arcata Community Center
• Energy Assessment Completed – Evaluated energy use
• Secured ECCA Loan – Lighting upgrades & solar
• Efficiency Upgrades – Installed high-efficiency lighting • Solar Installation – Lowering costs & carbon footprint • Project Management – Supported RFP & contractor selection City of Fortuna - Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Energy Assessment Completed - Evaluated energy use
Humboldt Waste Management Authority
• Energy Assessment Completed
• Interested in Energy Efficiency + Solar Project
• Supported project sequencing decision-making
Mateel Community Center
• Energy Assessment Completed
• Reviewed assessment finding with the facility team
• Screened projects for incentives, rebates, and financing Contract extens ion for LGP renewal
• Extend contract 2 years to December 2028
• Add $799,992 budget ($339,996/year)
• Adjust Key Performance Indicators to fit our customers.
LGP Contract Change Order
Staff Report
Agenda Item # 13.4
Information
Agenda Date January 22, 2026
To Board of Directors
Prepared by Beth Burks, Executive Director
Subject Regional Climate Action Plan Implementation
Summary
The Regional Climate Action Plan (RCAP)1 was approved by the County on December 16, 2025. The RCAP is a collaborative effort between the County of Humboldt, and all the 7 cities to take a regional approach for addressing climate change. It is anticipated that each city will soon be adopting the RCAP.
RCAP is a starting place for a regional coalition focused on change and details a set of strategies to reduce GHG emissions, increase climate resiliency, and strengthen the growing regional green economy.
A cornerstone strategy in the RCAP is to establish a Regional Climate Committee comprised of representatives from each jurisdiction, Humboldt Transit Authority, Humboldt County Association of Governments, Humboldt Waste Management Authority, and RCEA, and to create a Climate Program Manager position to lead the coordination efforts of the Regional Climate Committee.
The Humboldt County Association of Governments, as part of a regional working group comprised of staff from each jurisdiction, has been exploring the potential of hosting the RCAP efforts and has made progress in working through how the Regional Climate Committee could work and how a regional climate manager position could be funded. Recently the regional working group has inquired if RCEA would also be willing to evaluate if we could take on these duties.
Background
The Humboldt RCAP is a long-range planning document that guides the Humboldt region towards long-term greenhouse gas emission reduction in accordance with the State’s goal to reduce GHG emissions by 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. The RCAP aims to address the unique needs of the communities in the region while advancing comprehensive greenhouse gas reduction and economic development goals. The RCAP focuses on creating a climate coalition to maximize regional efficiencies, overcome challenges facing rural areas, attract funding, build a green economy, mitigate emissions, and increase resilience.
1 Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan link
https://humboldtgov.org/DocumentCenter/View/145242/RCAP-FINAL-12162025?bidId= 185
RCEA has participated in the development of the RCAP in several ways. In its early development we provided staff support for drafting the document and providing historical data; we have consistently participated in working group sessions with the regional partners; and RCEA work related to our Community Choice Energy program and energy efficiency programs is embedded into plan assumptions and implementation strategies.
The RCAP includes 29 implementation measures related to carbon-free energy, building energy use, transportation, waste, water/wastewater, and carbon sequestration. A list of these measures and goals is included in Attachment 1. Nearly, all the implementation measures have some relationship to energy, whether they are related to electrification, energy efficiency, or decarbonization of the transportation sector.
Consistency with RCEA’s JPA and RePower Humboldt
The potential to take on the RCAP implementation coordination falls within the purpose specified in RCEA’s Joint Powers Agreement and is consistent with RePower Humboldt strategies and goals.
Within RCEA’s Joint Powers Agreement the purposes include:
a. To lead, coordinate and integrate regional efforts that advance secure, sustainable, clean and affordable energy resources.
Through RePower Humboldt, RCEA’s Comprehensive Action Plan for Energy, many of the major strategies we have identified overlap with RCAP implementation measures:
1. Regional Energy Planning & Coordination. This includes the goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions county-wide by 2030, and to assist with Climate Action Planning.
2. Integrated Demand Side Management. Includes expanding energy efficiency programming, supporting microgrids, and supporting electrification in residential and public buildings.
3. Low-Carbon Transportation. Accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, support the use of biofuels, and work with other local public entities to reduce vehicle miles traveled.
4. Energy Generation and Utility Services. Achieve a power mix that is 100% net-zero carbon emission, renewable sources. Improve grid reliability and resilience and support distributed energy resources and community microgrids.
Next Steps
If the Board chooses to direct staff to explore this further, staff will consult with the regional working group and bring back a plan for consideration. The plan would outline specific steps such as necessary agreements, budget, and logistics on how the Regional Climate Committee would function. Notably, the jurisdictions are prepared to participate in the funding for a Regional Climate Manager position, but there would be ancillary costs associated with supporting the committee such as clerk services that would not be funded.
Equity Impacts
Any RCAP implementation activities will be done in the context of RCEA’s Racial Justice Plan initiatives. 186
Alignment with RCEA’s Strategic Plan
See section above detailing overlap between RCEA’s strategic Plan and RCAP.
Financial Impact
At this point there are no financial impacts beyond the staff time to further explore an arrangement where RCEA would become the agency responsible for coordination of RCAP implementation. If the Board elects to further explore this potential staff will bring back additional information including information on potential financial impacts.
Staff Recommendation
Discuss Regional Climate Action Plan implementation and provide direction to staff to further explore RCEA serving as the Regional Climate Committee and adding a position for a Regional Climate Manager.
Attachments
1. Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan Measures 187
This page
intentionally
left blank.
188
Implementation
Final Report 89
Table 32 Implementation Work Plan
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
Measure C-1: Establish a Regional Climate Committee comprised of elected officials from each jurisdiction, HTA, HCAOG, HWMA, and RCEA to be administered by the County.
C-1a Pursue and obtain funding to create a Climate Program Manager position to lead the coordination efforts of the Regional Climate Committee. The Regional Climate Committee will be responsible for implementing RCAP measures and actions. The Climate Program Manager will facilitate the work of the Regional Climate Committee made up of responsible parties from each of the region’s jurisdictions and agencies. The Manager will work with the Committee to utilize the RCAP as a strategic plan outlining the goals of the Coalition. The Manager will coordinate with staff of the participating jurisdictions and agencies to undertake the work directed by the Committee. Finally, the Manager will develop an annual progress report on RCAP implementation annually to City Councils and County Supervisors to measure progress and establish accountability in achieving RCAP emissions reduction goals.
Municipal
Planning/Building
(County)
Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1b The Program Manager represents a larger staff need to fulfill the mission of the Regional Climate Committee and will obtain funding to support several staff in implementing and tracking the RCAP.
Municipal
Planning/Building
(County)
Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1c The Regional Climate Committee will develop and provide models, pilot programs, and template policies or ordinances that enable each jurisdiction in the region to implement uniform changes and facilitating local communities in making the necessary structural adjustments to reduce GHG emissions. This will reduce inefficiencies and duplication of effort while ensuring a coordinated regional approach.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1d Develop and distribute promotional materials and programs across the region to inform the community, gain buy-in, and promote awareness of new and existing programs and opportunities. Leveraging the Regional Climate Committee to prepare such materials will allow for limited resources in the region to be pooled on such efforts thereby reducing strain on jurisdictional staff. This engagement effort should include strategies to plan and address public disbelief around climate change and should relay the message that all community members (whether in urban or rural areas) need to participate in local efforts.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 1 -
ongoing
189
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
90 Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
C-1e Leverage regional programs to engage and support frontline communities that may experience secondary impacts or not benefit directly from the measures' objectives.
Ensure these communities can access regional resources or funding opportunities to mitigate identified impacts and benefit the entire community. The Regional Climate Committee will be charged with engaging with regional programs and identifying appropriate community-based organizations to lead and guide such engagement efforts to ensure voices of vulnerable communities are involved in RCAP implementation and planning.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
190
Implementation
Final Report 91
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
C-1f Utilize regional resources to conduct efficient regional studies, avoiding redundancy, that provide a clear understanding of the details, obstacles, and feasibility of proposed programs. This includes necessary analyses to identify the best path forward or the feasibility of implementing specific measures. The Regional Climate Committee will aid in identifying the regional expertise and coordinating studies across the region to limit duplication of efforts.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1g Collaborate regionally to identify and pursue relevant and impactful grants and financial backing to facilitate RCAP implementation across the region. Ensure resources and efforts are directed towards securing funds that can be distributed across the region, such as grants or rebates to support measure implementation and adequate program staffing.
Direct the Regional Climate Committee to pursue 3-5 grants for regional efforts to meet RCAP goals per year.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1h Use the collaborative network of local jurisdictions, agencies, and community-based organizations (CBOs) to attract additional internal and external support and expertise.
This includes engaging community organizations that are well-positioned to consistently and sustainably advance specific measures. Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to identify and provide assistance to local jurisdictions’ high priority project pursuits which support the RCAP.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1i Work with the school districts in incorporated cities and unincorporated Humboldt to create a school outreach program or curriculum to educate children from a young age on the RCAP and climate change.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
C-1j The RCC will communicate with the local Tribes to collaborate on their existing and future efforts to reduce GHG emissions in the region. This collaboration and future partnerships will leverage both agencies ability to obtain funding to complete overlapping work to reduce GHG emissions.
Climate Committee Phase 1 -
ongoing
Measure BE-1: By 2030, source 90% of grid-supplied electricity from renewable and carbon-free sources. 191
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
92 Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-1a Coordinate and support Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) in developing an effective energy strategy. Strategy should include conducting an assessment to identify the potential obstacles and detail the steps to providing provide renewable and carbon-free power and decarbonization programs outlined in the RePower Humboldt plan such as:
1. Future Capacity constraints
2. Customer solar installations
3. Customer electrification support
4. EV charging infrastructure buildout
5. Building Electrification
6. Advanced biofuel infrastructure
7. Evaluate enrollment rates in RCEA programs annually to understand why residents and businesses opt out or opt to procure standard grid electricity. Use results to adjust strategy for increasing enrollment accordingly Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 1
BE-1b Through the Regional Climate Committee develop a template policy or ordinance for regional jurisdictions to use to require new commercial and industrial developments to acquire electricity from renewable and carbon-free energy sources such as enrolling with RCEA, incorporating on-site renewable generation, or enrolling in PG&E’s 100 percent renewable rate. For each jurisdiction, adapt the templated policy or ordinance as necessary and adopt by 2026.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Phase 1
BE-1c Collaborate across the region with interested parties including tribes, labor unions, workforce development boards, State agencies, colleges, universities, industries, and community organizations to increase local energy workforce development. Partner with RCEA, Humboldt State University, and College of the Redwoods to actively develop education and certifications for electrical and construction trades by 2027 to ensure develop a skilled workforce ready to meet the region's energy needs.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Phase 1 – 2
BE-1d Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to work with RCEA to reduce opt-down rate for new customers to no more than 2 percent. Develop promotional educational materials to inform community members on available incentives and benefits of clean energy and energy efficiency.
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Climate Committee
Phase 1 -
ongoing
192
Implementation
Final Report 93
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-1e Engage with the community and partner with community organizations to facilitate increased communication, technical assistance, and access to energy incentives through the California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE), Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA), and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) programs for low/moderate income households.
Municipal Public Works
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-1f Work with RCEA to expand and advertise regional energy funding programs as described in the RePower Humboldt plan. Facilitate Humboldt residents and businesses in utilizing energy finance programs such as, but not limited to, the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program. Conduct targeted outreach to public entities, such as public schools, that are eligible for State and Federal Program loans.
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-1g Coordinate through the Regional Climate Committee to establish and administer a multi-jurisdictional staff position dedicated to identifying and pursuing funding opportunities to support County-wide educational programs, assisting in equitable energy workforce expansion outreach, and providing RCEA with additional funds to expand incentives or subsidies for the community to increase community enrollment. If establishing a dedicated staff position is not feasible, work with the Regional Climate Committee and regional partners to identify resource sharing opportunities for pursuing funding opportunities such as rotating the responsibility across designated agency employees.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 1
Measure BE-2: Increase the development of micro-grids and energy storage across the region to support RCEA’s RePower Humboldt goals of enhancing grid capacity and facilitating the electrification of buildings and transportation.
BE-2a Develop permit streamlining programs that can be adopted by local jurisdictions to facilitate the streamlined implementation of renewable energy projects as identified in regional energy feasibility study and RCEA RePower Humboldt goals such as energy storage projects, residential and commercial solar installation, and microgrid development.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-2b Direct the Regional Climate Committee to work with RCEA to develop a plan for leveraging CPUC’s recently passed Limited Generation Profile option to maximize solar installation developments in alignment with RCEA’s RePower Humboldt goals throughout the region.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
193
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
94 Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-2c Engage with the local community, key interested parties, and local-based community organizations representing disadvantaged and vulnerable communities to raise awareness about alternative renewable energy and nano-grid opportunities available through RCEA. Emphasize the increased accessibility to electrification as well as the economic and environmental advantages of electrification while addressing concerns related to emergency response to minimize exceptions. Publicize the connection between RCEA nano-grid efforts and the increased ability to electrify leading to cost savings, funding opportunities, environmental benefits, and flexibility of electrification through jurisdiction websites and permit counters.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
Phase 2
BE-2d As part of Regional Climate Committee responsibilities identified in Measure C-1, engage with RCEA to track progress toward targets set in RCEA’s RePower Humboldt plan and identify additional opportunities for local jurisdictions to alleviate barriers to goals set in RCEA’s RePower Humboldt plan.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-2e As part of Regional Climate Committee responsibilities work with RCEA and the Schatz Energy Research Center to identify locations throughout the County that are priority for utility-scale, nano-grid, and micro-grid solar, hydropower, and/or wind energy generation based on aspects such as land availability and suitability, infrastructure needs, resilience, and energy access equity. Coordinate with PG&E on interconnection needs and identify strategies with PG&E of how to best support capacity building on the grid related to micro-grid projects.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 2-
ongoing
BE-2f Conduct an equity assessment across the region that includes the identification of potential cost barriers to residential solar development, particularly for low income and rural communities at the end of PG&E distribution infrastructure, and identify feasible sites for solar and battery installation and potential funding sources.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 1
BE-2g Identify facilities that are suitable to operate as regional resilience hubs to protect people from climate related issues. Create a priority list of these facilities with particular focus on servicing disadvantaged communities and work with RCEA to prioritize implementation of on-site microgrid and energy storage on identified.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 1
194
Implementation
Final Report 95
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-2h Regional Climate Committee will work with RCEA to pursue regional funding opportunities that can be used to develop resilient microgrids and incentivize new housing developers to install solar and on-site batteries, particularly for affordable housing developments. Aim to pursue 3 grant or funding opportunities annually focused on microgrids and/or energy storage expansion.
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 1
Measure BE-3 Urban: Reduce existing residential building natural gas consumption by 4% by 2030 and 74% by 2045.
BE-3a Urban Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to lead the development of a decarbonization plan for urban areas that assesses the feasibility and cost for electrification retrofitting for residential buildings as well as identifies potential equity concerns/impacts. The plan should identify strategies and/or specific projects to decarbonize 4 percent of existing residential and multi-family buildings by 2030 and strategies for increasing infrastructure readiness to electrify through 2045. The plan should give consideration for increased electricity capacity needs and RCEA’s RePower Humboldt goals to meet increased capacity need. The plan should also identify a variety of equitable decarbonization solutions and potential projects such as partial electrification and increased energy efficiency options for mixed-fuel residences that face barriers to full electrification. The study should also identify the funding and financing requirements necessary to support the community in this transition.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(cities)
RCEA
Phase 1
BE-3b Urban As part of Regional Climate Committee responsibilities identified in Measure C-1, petition PG&E to help identify priority areas for electric grid expansion projects to increase regional electric grid capacity and islanding capabilities to allow for increased building electrification capacity.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 1 - 3
BE-3c Urban Develop a home energy advisory service administered by the Regional Climate Committee that assists existing homeowners to better understand the cost of building decarbonization options including partial and full home electrification, identifies service providers, and provides support for homeowners to access electrification incentives from the Energy Smart Homes program.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 2 -
ongoing
195
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
96 Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-3d Urban Work with the Regional Climate Committee to identify and pursue funds through CARB, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act including:
1. DOE block grants
2. On Bill financing through Utility bills
3. Green bonds
4. Grant Anticipation Notes or Short-Term Loans
5. Tax exempt lease purchases
6. Energy as a service
7. Energy Performance Contracting from Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(cities)
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-3e Urban Work with the Regional Climate Committee to develop and manage educational/promotional materials that each jurisdiction can use to educate the community on ways to finance home decarbonization. Materials should include information and links to existing available rebates for Heat Pumps, Weatherization, Smart Thermostats, Appliances, and Pool Pumps as well as other rebates offered through RCEA of the local jurisdiction if applicable.
Climate Committee Phase 1
BE-3f Urban Work with the local contractors, realtors, homeowner associations, landlords, and labor unions to develop a comprehensive training program, including hosting workforce development trainings discussing the benefits and technical requirements of electrification as well as addressing interested party concerns regarding electrification.
Municipal Public Works
(cities)
Municipal Community
Development (cities)
Phase 2 -
ongoing
BE-3g Urban Develop a fund for low income and affordable housing electrification pilot projects in collaboration with affordable housing owners, utilities, and the community. Work with RCEA to develop a program to offset cost for occupants using financing and through the sourcing of grant funds to subsidize cost.
Municipal Public Works
(cities)
RCEA
Phase 2 -
ongoing
Measure BE-3 Rural: Reduce existing residential fossil-fuel consumption in households not connected to natural gas infrastructure by 2% by 2030 196
Implementation
Final Report 97
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-3a Rural Regional Climate Committee to conduct a feasibility study to establish local low-carbon fuel alternative, such as renewable propane, sourced from local resources such as forest biomass waste which can be used as direct substitutes for propane or diesel building fuel.
The feasibility study should consider procurement and cost considerations with a focus on equity for low-income households, and map communities with significant propane and wood fuel use to identify accessibility strategy for acquiring alternative fuels (e.g. renewable propane, sustainably harvested wood products, renewable diesel) and/or undergoing home electrification.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Phase 1
BE-3b Rural As part of Regional Climate Committee responsibilities identified in Measure C-1, petition PG&E to help identify priority areas for rural electric grid expansion projects to increase regional electric grid capacity and islanding capabilities to allow for increased building electrification capacity.
Climate Committee Phase 1- 3
BE-3c Rural Promote existing available rebates to rural communities for Heat Pumps, Weatherization, Smart Thermostats, Appliances, and Pool Pumps to educate the community on ways to finance electrification or otherwise decarbonize their residences. Provide assistance to rural homeowners in assessing the viability and permitting of installing off-grid solar and battery alternative energy sources on their homes and finance options.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-3d Rural For viable alternative fuel sources identified in a feasibility study, establish procurement and distribution supply centers within easy access of rural communities.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Municipal
Planning/Building
(county)
Phase 2
BE-3e Rural The Regional Climate Committee will lead the effort to identify, access, and provide funding assistance for the procurement of alternative fuels, such as biomethane, in alignment with SB 1383 procurement requirements. Advocate to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for inclusion of alternative low-carbon fuels substitution, such as renewable propane, to be allowed in ratepayer funded programs including energy efficiency programs.
Climate Committee Phase 2 - 3
Measure BE-4: Reduce existing nonresidential building natural gas consumption by 5% by 2030 and 79% by 2045. 197
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
98 Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-4a As part of the development of the decarbonization plan led by the Regional Climate Committee referenced in Measure BE-3 Urban, identify nonresidential building electrification barriers and develop a nonresidential building decarbonization strategy with analysis supporting future adoption of a nonresidential building decarbonization ordinance. The plan should give consideration for increased electricity capacity needs and for other decarbonization strategies that would be needed to reduce nonresidential natural gas consumption by at least 5 percent. As part of strategy development, conduct outreach to small businesses to understand potential equity impacts of a decarbonization policy. The plan should also assess ordinance parameters for including large scale renovation as part of the new commercial building ordinance requirements established for each organization (Measure BE-6).
Climate Committee
RCEA
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1
BE-4b Work with the Regional Climate Committee to develop a template Commercial Energy Performance Assessment and Disclosure Ordinance for commercial and multi-family buildings to be adopted within each jurisdiction by 2027. The ordinance should require energy use disclosure consistent with State law (AB 1103) and the use of the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager benchmarking tool. Include regulatory mechanism (e.g., permitting and approval requirements, building codes and standards modification) that limits expansion of natural gas infrastructure and incentivizes appliance replacement.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Climate Committee
Phase 2
BE-4c Establish streamlined permitting in each jurisdiction for energy efficiency technologies, onsite renewable energy, and battery storage in buildings and critical facilities that require power during emergencies or power outages. Incorporate equity considerations into permitting process for all other building battery storage including prioritization, rebates, and outreach.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 2
198
Implementation
Final Report 99
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-4d As part of Regional Climate Committee responsibilities identified in Measure C-1, develop an outreach campaign to promote building decarbonization and include items in the program such as:
1. Conduct engagement efforts for the commercial and industrial sector to identify ways jurisdictions and the Regional Climate Committee can support commercial energy storage installations and neighborhood scale microgrid opportunities
2. Facilitate funding opportunities for commercial business electrification by identifying and supporting grant opportunities available to the community, prioritizing small and frontline community owned businesses
3. Use feedback provided during the community outreach process for small businesses to mitigate potential equity impacts of a future building performance program
4. Distribute utility bill inserts to advertise the incentive programs or grants available and the cost benefits of electric appliances
5. Target outreach to businesses, builders, developers, local contractors, and property managers with information describing the financial benefits of replacing natural gas appliances with all electric appliance when they apply for permits
6. Provide informational webinars and an updated website to advertise and promote All-Electric Building Initiative rebates and incentives
7. Promote the use of the Energy Star Portfolio Manager program and energy benchmarking training programs for nonresidential building owners Climate Committee Phase 2 -
ongoing
Measure BE-5: Decarbonize 95% of new residential building construction by 2027 199
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
100
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-5a Regional Climate Committee to develop an energy performance ordinance, EDR, reach code, or zero NOx threshold for new residential construction that can be modified by each jurisdiction as necessary to conserve staff resources. Adopt the ordinances within each jurisdiction to decarbonize 95 percent of new residential buildings by 2027 and update every 3 years thereafter if not included within State building codes. As part of building decarbonization ordinance development and subsequent updates, consider the following:
1. Minimize the exemptions associated with the ordinance, while allowing for health and safety exemptions as necessary and exploring potential exemptions for specific use cases determined to have substantial economic development or business impacts
2. Require the submittal of an infeasibility waiver to review specific end uses where electrification is technologically infeasible
3. Require that any end-use deemed infeasible for electrification exceeds existing Title 24 energy efficiency standards and be electric ready for future electrification
4. Specify that affordable housing developments will be all-electric to ensure no stranded assets
5. Establish substantial remodel and improvement definitions to be included in the ordinance
6. Track and enforce requirement compliance through a permitting compliance program managed by each jurisdiction
7. Revise ordinance during update cycle as necessary to meet 95 percent goal.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Climate Committee
Phase 2
BE-5b Conduct feasibility study(s) to identify local decarbonization barriers for new residential developments and develop a residential building decarbonization strategy with analysis.
The feasibility study should include developing a new residential building decarbonization plan that assesses the grid feasibility and cost for electrification at certain legislative threshold requirements in consideration of leveraging RCEA residential nano-grid and battery storage options. The feasibility study should assess the potential cost impacts to multifamily and affordable housing new developments and identify potential strategies for mitigating negative impacts for equitable electrification.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 1
200
Implementation
Final Report 101
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-5c Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to lead engagement efforts with affordable housing developers to leverage incentives for new all-electric and efficient low-income residential buildings through the California Energy Commission Building Initiative for Low-Emissions Development (BUILD) Program, the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program, and the California Electric Homes Program (CalEHP).
Regularly investigate and leverage other incentive programs available for electrification of new buildings.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 2 -
ongoing
BE-5d Through the Regional Climate Committee, work with local contractors, realtors, homeowner associations, landlords, and labor unions to develop a comprehensive training program, including hosting workforce development trainings discussing the benefits and technical requirements of local municipality building decarbonization legislation and the most effective pathways to achieving requirements. Include information on load calculations to avoid service upgrade requirements Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 2 -
ongoing
BE-5e Partner with RCEA and PG&E to circumvent or mitigates electric utility infrastructure capacity constraints.
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
Phase 2 -
ongoing
BE-5f Collaborate with RCEA to develop and fund locally implemented programs to help customers in accessing financing options for energy projects and rebates for cleaner, energy efficient technology.
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
Phase 2 -
ongoing
Measure BE-6: Decarbonize 95% of new nonresidential building construction by 2027 201
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
102
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-6a Adopt within each jurisdiction an energy performance ordinance, energy design rating (EDR), reach code, or zero NOx threshold to decarbonize 95 percent of new nonresidential buildings by 2027 and update every 3 years thereafter if not included within State building codes. As part of building decarbonization legislation development and subsequent updates, consider the following:
1. Direct the Regional Climate Committee to develop a template ordinance that can be modified by each jurisdiction as necessary to conserve staff resources.
2. Minimize the exemptions associated with the ordinance, while allowing for health and safety exemptions as necessary and exploring potential exemptions for specific use cases determined to have substantial economic development or business impacts.
3. Require the submittal of an infeasibility waiver to review specific end uses where electrification is technologically infeasible.
4. Require that any end-use deemed infeasible for electrification exceed existing Title 24 energy efficiency standards and be electric ready for future electrification.
5. Establish substantial remodel and improvement definitions to be included in the ordinance.
6. Enforce requirement compliance through the same permitting compliance program as for residential building decarbonization.
7. Establish EDR requirements for new non-residential buildings that incentivize electrification and in a case where electrification is infeasible, requires higher energy efficient and low emissions equipment to meet the EDR.
8. Track effectiveness of ordinance through permitting compliance program and revise ordinance during update cycle as necessary to meet 95 percent goal.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Climate Committee
Phase 2
202
Implementation
Final Report 103
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-6b Conduct feasibility study(s) to identify decarbonization barriers for commercial buildings and develop a commercial building decarbonization strategy with analysis supporting future adoption of commercial decarbonization legislation. The feasibility study should include a comprehensive nonresidential building electrification plan that assesses the grid feasibility and cost for electrification and opportunities to mitigate grid and cost barriers by leveraging RCEA microgrid and battery storage options. The feasibility study should assess potential decarbonization legislation exemptions for commercial and industrial operations that are significantly restricted by available technology for electrification.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
Phase 1
BE-6c Connect developers with RCEA to identify applicable incentive programs in line with RCEA RePower goals that could benefit new building developments such as microgrids which can aid businesses in overcoming restrictions to electrification or decarbonization of processes.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-6d Through the Regional Climate Committee, work with local contractors, realtors, homeowner associations, landlords, and labor unions to develop a comprehensive training program, including hosting workforce development trainings to discuss the benefits and technical requirements of decarbonization. .
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 2
BE-6e Partner with RCEA and PG&E to establish a clear path for electrification of new nonresidential buildings which meet EDR requirements and circumvent or mitigate electric utility infrastructure capacity.
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
Phase 2
Measure BE-7: Decarbonize 30% municipal buildings and facilities by 2030 BE-7a Regional Climate Committee to develop a template resolution for each jurisdiction to decarbonize 30 percent of municipal buildings and facilities by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045 by retrofitting natural gas appliances with electric alternatives, conversion of street lights to solar or LED, and install on-site electricity generation and storage capacity.
Include in the resolution an ‘electric first’ purchasing policy for any equipment or appliances in need of replacement.
Municipal Facility
Management
Board of Supervisors
Phase 1
203
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
104
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-7b Coordinate with the Regional Climate Committee and RCEA to conduct energy audits of municipal buildings to establish a baselines of current energy consumption and identify the largest energy users or municipal buildings with the greatest natural gas consumption. Utilize audit results to prioritize municipal buildings to decarbonize.
Conduct follow-up energy audits every 3 years to track progress. Leverage data from buildings reporting to the Building Energy Benchmarking Program established under AB 802 where possible to reduce labor.
Municipal Facility
Management
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
BE-7c Develop a study through the Regional Climate Committee which estimates renewable energy generation on County and local jurisdiction facilities, identifies a priority list of sites which may serve as regional resilience hubs, and a proposed schedule for implementing the prioritized energy projects. The study should also seek to understand barriers to installing additional distributed energy resources such as solar and battery storage, or other renewable energy generation infrastructure, at municipal facilities.
Municipal Facility
Management
RCEA
Phase 2
BE-7d Identify and pursue funding sources and partnerships needed for successful implementation as well as plan for directing resources through each jurisdiction for funding.
Municipal Facility
Management
Climate Committee
Phase 1
Measure BE-8: Advocate for Offshore Wind developers to fund transmission infrastructure and work with PG&E, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), and other related agencies to build electrical transmission infrastructure to supply Humboldt with energy produced by the future offshore wind projects which will increase regional supply and resilience BE-8a Dedicate Regional Climate Committee staff time to work with local organizations (e.g. 350Humboldt, Redwood Region Climate & Community Resilience Hub, COREHub) to petition the CEC and Humboldt Offshore Wind developers, PG&E, the California Independent System Operator, the CPUC and other relevant decision makers to implement electricity transmission and distribution to the Humboldt region.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 2
BE-8b Have the Regional Climate Committee advocate to the CEC and State to allow for an equitable rate tiering law to provide affordable rates for LIDAC communities in Humboldt County.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 2 - 3
204
Implementation
Final Report 105
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
BE-8c Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to work with California Independent System Operator (ISO), California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the California Energy Commission (CEC), the off Humboldt Offshore Wind projects and PG&E to identify pathways to establish equitable regional access to electricity produced by the offshore wind projects. This may include supporting permitting and development processes necessary for the proposed new Humboldt 500 kV substation as well as advocating to include distribution capacities at the substation for Humboldt County.
Climate Committee Phase 2 - 3
BE-8d Direct the Regional Climate Committee to evaluate and pursue opportunities for the Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant through the Inflation Reduction Act or other available programs to advance clean energy from the wind-farm projects. Aim to apply for at least 3 grants annually.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Phase 2
BE-8e Lobby PG&E, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), and other related agencies to fund and build enhanced energy transmission infrastructure throughout Humboldt County to ensure that renewable energy produced by the offshore wind projects can be distributed throughout the County. Also lobby offshore wind developers to contribute to the funding of such transmission upgrades.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Phase 2 - 3
Measure T-1 Urban: Implement programs, such as those identified in HCAOG’s RTP, to increase the mode share of active transportation in urbanized areas from 9% to 12% by 2030, thereby achieving a regional active transportation mode share of 8% T-1a Urban Regional Climate Committee to aid the urbanized areas of Humboldt by partnering with HCAOG and HTA to identify and pursue grant opportunities such as the Active Transportation Program, AARP Community Challenge, CalEPA’s Environmental Justice Action Grants, and Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants, etc., to fund active transportation projects identified in the Regional Transportation Plan. Aim to apply for at least 3 grants annually.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
HTA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-1b Urban In urbanized areas with high alternative transit expansion potential work with the Regional Climate Committee to facilitate community outreach on transportation alternatives and promote infrastructure improvements and expansion identified in HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan. Continually improve methods for engaging the community, gathering input, and utilizing it to prioritize projects.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development (urban)
Phase 1 -
ongoing
205
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
106
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-1c Urban Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to pursue and access funding to develop and maintain regional webpage and app showing pedestrian and bike trails, bike lanes and bus times and routes. Distribute active transportation maps and promotional materials to hotels and tourism centers to increase visitor use of active transportation. Advertise and promote Humboldt Bikeshare program managed by the City of Arcata, Cal Poly Humboldt, and Tandem Mobility.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development (urban)
HCAOG
Phase 2 -
ongoing
T-1d Urban Identify equity barriers to safe bike and pedestrian infrastructure through community outreach and use of big data driven analysis as well as targeted community outreach to better understand nuanced barriers. Include prompts in outreach around ways to improve social and modal equity in the active transportation systems and programs.
Develop a priority list of active transportation projects from HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan based on level of impact, expansion of inter-jurisdictional connectivity, and historically under-invested communities.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
HCOAG
Phase 1
T-1e Urban Increase inter-connectivity across the region working with HCAOG, Caltrans and the Regional Climate Committee representatives to:
1. Evaluate and prioritize land use projects and active transportation projects for their impact on increased regional connectivity
2. Identify hurdles limiting connectivity and use, such as last-mile commute limitations
3. Facilitate coordination across jurisdictions and rural and urban areas to plan development in a coordinated and most strategic manner
4. Apply for regional funding opportunities focused on increased inter-connection and VMT reduction
5. Apply for regional funding opportunities for maintenance needs for non-motorized transportation routes
6. Implement the VMT mitigation measures associated with VMT thresholds Climate Committee
HCAOG
Caltrans
Phase 2 – Phase
3 T-1f
Urban
The Regional Climate Committee will work with the local jurisdictions to develop road-related policies that require installation of multimodal transportation features where feasible.
Climate Committee Phase 2 – Phase
3 206
Implementation
Final Report 107
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
Measure T-1 Rural: Implement programs, such as those identified in HCAOG’s RTP, that increase access to safe active transportation, to increase the mode share of active transportation in rural areas from 5% to 6% by 2030 thereby achieving a regional active transportation mode share of 9% T-1a Rural Regional Climate Committee to conduct a feasibility study evaluating existing bike parking facilities in rural areas and what improvements can be made to increase supply, reduce theft, and increase rider attraction. Include in the study an analysis of current and future land use trends and identify active transportation facility development which would result in high inter- connectivity impact. The study should focus on needs to better connect rural communities to city centers, job centers, and amenities.
Climate Committee Phase 1
T-1b Rural Develop a priority list of active transportation projects from HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan based on level of impact, expansion of inter-connectivity, and historically under-invested communities where there is currently no or limited pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure as informed by feasibility study.
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
HCAOG
Phase 1
T-1c Rural The Regional Climate Committee will work with the regions jurisdictions, HCAOG, and CalTrans to obtain funding for the construction of bikeway and pedestrian systems to improve interconnection within Humboldt County. Focus areas will be projects that connect rural communities to high employment areas such as City of Eureka, Arcata, and Fortuna as well as nearby counties, State, and federal infrastructure through integration of bicycle facilities as part of other roadway construction projects (e.g. CalTrans mobility hub and highway projects).
Regional Climate
Committee
HCAOG
Phase 2 -
ongoing
T-1d Rural Partner with California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) District 1 Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee (PBAC) to track progress on implementation of bicycle and pedestrian projects in the region, ensure that projects being planned are consistent with the District Active Transportation Plan, and to represent the regions rural jurisdictions needs to the PBAC.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Phase 2 -
ongoing
T-1e Rural Regional Climate Committee to work with jurisdictions in rural regions that have planned land use development to establish standards for when and how new residential subdivisions, multi-family, and mixed-use developments shall provide inter- connected bicycle and pedestrian facilities and amend local codes accordingly.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Phase 2 - 3
207
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
108
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-1f Rural Increase community awareness of active transportation infrastructure projects occurring and those completed. Work with HCAOG to continue to fund, develop, and maintain regional webpages and apps showing pedestrian and bike trails, bike lanes, and bus times and routes. Distribute active transportation maps and promotional materials to hotels and tourism centers to increase visitor use of active transportation.
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Climate Committee
HCOAG
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-1g Rural Partner with the tourism and business sectors of larger tourism and employment regions of the County to identify pathways to increase active transportation from tourists and employees.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development (rural)
Phase 2
T-1h Rural Regional Climate Committee to identify and apply for grant opportunities such as the Active Transportation Program, AARP Community Challenge, CalEPA’s Environmental Justice Action Grants, and Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants, etc., to fund rural active transportation projects identified in the Regional Transportation Plan.
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Climate Committee
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-1i Rural Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to fund the development of local subsidy for low-income residents across the region for bicycles, helmets, pumps, and other bicycle equipment. Continue to offer e-bike rebates with increased rebate opportunities for low-income customers. Implement an income-qualified coupon for the e-bike share program, in addition to the available 50 percent discounted e-bike share rate.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development (rural)
Phase 2
Measure T-2 Urban: Expand the public transit network in support of HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan to increase public transit mode share from 2% to 20% public transit mode share in urbanized areas to achieve a regional 13% public transit mode share by 2030 T-2a Urban Regional Climate Committee to work with Humboldt Transit Authority (HTA) and HCAOG to support implementation of measures to increase use of public transportation services in the region as specified in HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan, and work toward a 10-minute headway in urban areas. This should include, but is not limited to:
1. Improving passenger transfer among local routes and between local and intercity routes (e.g., North State Express and Amtrak)
2. Improving shelters at bus stops
3. Electronic signage and/or real-time updates of wait time until next bus Climate Committee
HTA
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
Phase 2
208
Implementation
Final Report 109
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-2b Urban For areas with significant tourism industry, conduct a feasibility study to inform the development of a tourism-based mobility plan aimed at decreasing tourism-based single passenger vehicle use. In this study:
1. Identify community boundary locations for tourism designated parking and optimal route connectivity
2. Identify opportunities for town shuttle services and park-and-ride locations for residents and tourists
3. Gauge potential of partnerships with big tourism destinations and local businesses to implement direct public transit routes between park and ride and the relevant tourist destinations
4. Identify opportunities for dogs to be included in a shuttle service to locations that allow dogs
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
HCAOG
Phase 1
T-2c Urban Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to conduct local transportation surveys to better understand the community’s needs and motivation for traveling by car versus other alternatives such as the bus. Use survey results to inform policy development and outreach campaigns that are transit focused. Develop marketing materials and provide them to the local jurisdictions to publicize public transportation improvements as they are planned and implemented in a variety of methods (social media, newspaper, radio, etc.) and languages to help facilitate use and success of improvement Climate Committee Phase 1
T-2d Urban Work with HTA to plan facility upgrades that include design improvements of seating and weather protection at bus stops and along transportation routes. Implementation should also include consideration of climate change impacts and increasing micro-transit access to the improved public transit network facility. Incorporate design changes throughout infrastructure modifications, including real-time updates of bus arrival.
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
HTA
Phase 1 – Phase
2 T-2e Urban Work with HTA to prioritize public transportation access and improvements in low-income areas of the region and at major destinations. This could include surveying existing transportation routes, schedules, and facilities throughout each jurisdiction as part of HCAOG’s Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program and improving public transportation facilities and expand access to transit (i.e., first and last-mile access).
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
HTA
Phase 2
209
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
110
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-2f Urban Regional Climate Committee to collaborate HTA and HCAOG in obtaining grant funding for service expansion and improvements particularly in underserved and marginalized areas. Also include assistance for working with the appropriate State agencies to petition for updates to the farebox ratio to allow HTA greater access to using funds for self-- advertisement.
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
HTA
Climate Committee
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-1g
Urban
The Regional Climate Committee will work with local jurisdictions to prioritize spending of transit-specific funding for transit needs first.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(urban)
Phase 1 -
ongoing
210
Implementation
Final Report 111
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
Measure T-2 Rural: Develop a robust public transit network in support of HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan to increase public transit mode share from 1% to 10% in rural areas and achieve a regional 13% public transit mode share by 2030 T-2a Rural Regional Climate Committee to work with HTA and HCAOG to support implementation of measures to increase use of public transportation services in the region as specified in HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan and work toward a 30-minute headway in rural areas. This should include, but is not limited to:
1. Improving passenger transfer among local routes and between local and intercity routes (e.g., North State Express and Amtrak)
2. Improving shelters at bus stops
3. Prioritizing infrastructure improvements in existing communities that enable people better access and use of public transit
4. Electronic signage and/or real-time updates of wait time until next bus Climate Committee
HTA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-2b Rural For areas with significant tourism industry, conduct a feasibility study to inform the development of a tourism-based mobility plan aimed at decreasing tourism-based single passenger vehicle use. In this study:
1. Identify community boundary locations for tourism designated parking and optimal route connectivity.
2. Identify opportunities for town shuttle services and park-and-ride locations for residents and tourists.
3. Gauge potential of partnerships with big tourism destinations and local businesses to implement direct public transit routes between park and ride and the relevant tourist destinations.
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Phase 1
211
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
112
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-2c Rural Work with HCAOG and HTA to conduct a feasibility study to explore alternative forms of public transit, such as micro transit including on-demand shuttles, car share programs, bike share programs, and scooter share programs. Micro transit is a type of on-demand, shared transportation service that typically operates with smaller vehicles, such as vans or mini-buses, and offers flexible routes and schedules. The analysis should include identification of potential funding sources (e.g., grants, local taxes, local business sponsorship, discretionary funds, etc.) and identification of barriers and opportunities for how such a micro-mobility program may enhance active transportation or public transit use. Evaluate the effectiveness of the micro transit pilot program in McKinleyville to determine opportunities for implementing a similar program in other rural locations of the County.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Phase 1
T-2d Rural Based on the findings of the feasibility study, work with the Regional Climate Committee to develop a template micro-mobility policy that establishes a deployment protocol and permitting process, identifies any restrictions for use for safety reasons, and promotes equitable access through requirements for consistent placement of micro-mobility devices (e-scooters, e-bikes, etc.) in underserved areas or reductions in usage fees for lower-income users.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Board of Supervisors
(rural)
Phase 2
T-2e Rural Require large nonresidential and mixed-use developments to participate in Transportation Demand Management strategies, including providing shuttle services between employment centers and key transit centers, offering telecommuting, and encouraging use of pre-tax commute benefits.
Municipal
Planning/Building (rural)
Phase 2
T-2f Rural Market and publicize public transportation improvements as they are planned and implemented in a variety of methods (social media, newspaper, radio, etc.) and languages to help facilitate use.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development (rural)
HTA
Phase 2 -
ongoing
T-2g Rural Work with HTA in the implementation of facility improvements to rural transportation stops to include design improvements of seating and weather protection.
Implementation should also include consideration of increasing access to the improved public transit network facility.
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Climate Committee
HTA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
212
Implementation
Final Report 113
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-2h
Rural
The Regional Climate Committee will work with local jurisdictions to prioritize spending of transit-specific funding for transit needs first.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Phase 1 -
ongoing
213
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
114
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-2i
Rural
Regional Climate Committee will collaborate with the County, cities, HTA and HCAOG in order to identify roads, projects types, and project locations in the rural areas that would increase the accessibility and use f public transit. The Committee will research and obtain potential funding opportunities for these road improvements, such as through Senate Bill 1 funding programs.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
HTA
Municipal Public Works
(rural)
Phase 1 - 3
Measure T-3: Reduce regional VMT by increasing promotion of mixed-use development in infill priority areas and accelerate smart growth development by requiring local jurisdictions to adopt modified or new land use zoning designations to limit urban sprawl and promote high-density development within urban areas.
T-3a Work with the Regional Climate Committee to develop template land use and development policy to enable and encourage infill development and streamline zoning changes that allow for higher density housing development. Work with urban areas to rezone for higher residential density and mixed use, reduced parking requirements, and expedited planning and permitting processes in the downtown core, along transit corridors, and within future planned development areas that is compact, pedestrian friendly, and transit oriented where applicable.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Phase 1 – Phase
2 T-3b Leverage feasibility studies conducted by HCAOG to identify opportunities for mixed-use and infill development, map current and future planned transit networks, and establish a priority list of development that encourages regional growth to be in alignment with HCAOG and HTA transit goals. If not already included in previously conducted HCAOG studies, assess equity considerations with regards to location and distribution of developments, and potential transit access equity impacts.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
HTA
Phase 1
T-3c Work with HCAOG, HTA, RCEA and CBO’s to plan prospective mixed-use and infill projects so that they include design considerations with regards to alternative energy access/generation, EV charging infrastructure, and local public transit facilities. Promote development that increases walkability and is bikeable in neighborhoods.
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
HCAOG
HTACBO’s
Phase 2 - 3
T-3d Direct the Regional Climate Committees to develop promotional materials and manage a central webpage on local jurisdiction’s websites for planned projects detailing the benefits of mixed-use and/or infill developments.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1-
ongoing
214
Implementation
Final Report 115
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-3e Dedicate staff time or create multi-jurisdictional staff position to be administered by the Regional Climate Committee to identify and pursue funding opportunities to support mixed-use and infill developments.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Climate Committee
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-3f Study potential of establishing infill and transit-oriented development (TOD) overlay zones with minimum density requirements for as-of-right ministerial approval, streamlined permitting and reduced fees.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1 - 2
T-3g Pass ordinances prohibiting redesignation and rezoning of land for lower intensity land uses in transit-oriented development areas (areas within walking distance of basic services and transit).
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1 - 2
T-3h Further streamline permitting and reduce fees for construction of ADUs and affordable housing in targeted areas.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1
Measure T-4: Develop and implement regional mobility hubs and ZEV car-share programs to support mode shift from single occupancy vehicles T-4a Regional Climate Committee to initiate work with HCAOG by 2027 on the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program efforts to assess regional transportation characteristics and work with regional agencies to identify multimodal land use opportunities throughout the County. As part of this program, conduct a background review of options for purchasing, operating, and maintaining shared mobility assets such as ZEVs, electric bikes, and electric scooters. The program should include identification of potential funding sources (e.g., grants, local taxes, local business sponsorship, discretionary funds, etc.) and identification of barriers and opportunities for how expanding mobility hub facilities beyond state highways access may enhance active transportation or public transit use. Also include in the feasibility study an assessment of alternative powering options in partnership with RCEA (e.g. microgrids) to support ZEV car-share infrastructure with the mobility hubs.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Phase 1
T-4b In areas where Caltrans plans to implement mobility hubs along the state highway, local jurisdictions with support from the Regional Climate Committee will work with Caltrans to facilitate successful implementation and use the project to inform decisions on expanding mobility hub options throughout the region that will expand jurisdictional interconnectivity and provide public EV charging to the communities.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Municipal Public Works
Phase 1 – Phase
2 215
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
116
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-4c Regional Climate Committee will develop guidance for jurisdictions to implement mobility hub policies that establishes a deployment protocol and permitting process, identifies any restrictions for use for safety reasons, and promotes equitable access through requirements for consistent placement of mobility hub facilities in underserved areas or reductions in usage fees for lower income users. The guidance is to be developed based on the regional feasibility study above.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Phase 1
T-4d the Regional Climate Committee will coordinate with the City of Arcata in their efforts to bring in commercial autonomous EVs for car-share programs in association with regional mobility hubs.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Phase 1 – Phase
2 T-4e Dedicate staff time or leverage the Regional Climate Committee to work with work with HCAOG on the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program and Caltrans in identifying and pursuing funding opportunities identified in the feasibility study with focus on linking mobility hub programs with the current Caltrans project to facilitate greater community interconnectivity and adoption of mobility services provided.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Phase 2 -
ongoing
T-4f The Regional Climate Committee will implement a tracking mechanism to monitor the effectiveness of land use changes in achieving mode shift and reducing VMT.
Climate Committee Phase 2 -
ongoing
Measure T-5: Require commercial and industrial employers with 25 employees or more to develop a Transportation Demand Management Plan T-5a Across all jurisdictions, and particularly in high employment cities, require employers to develop a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan through a new ordinance and/or as a requirement to obtain a business license. TDM plans should include money-based incentives for employees to bike, walk, carpool, take the bus to work, or remote work where suitable. Require large employers (more than 25 employees) to subsidize biking, walking, or bus travel. The TDM should also include a ride-sharing program and membership within a transportation management association. The ride-sharing program will consist of designated parking spaces for ridesharing vehicles, passenger loading, unloading, and waiting zones; and a website, message board, or app for coordinating ridesharing. The program will include a provision to allow employees to work remotely 2 days per week when feasible and should include consideration for increasing broadband internet access to provide adequate service for those working remote.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Climate Committee
Phase 2
216
Implementation
Final Report 117
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-5b Leverage the Regional Climate Committee and partnership with HCAOG to conduct local transportation surveys within each jurisdiction to better understand the community’s needs and motivation for traveling by car versus other alternatives such as the bus. Use survey results to inform policy development and outreach campaigns that are transit focused.
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 1
T-5c Have the Regional Climate Committee prepare marketing materials that each jurisdiction may modify and use to market and publicize public and active transportation improvements to local businesses as they are planned and implemented in a variety of methods (social media, newspaper, radio, etc.) and languages to help facilitate use and success of improvement.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-5e Work with local businesses to understand employee engagement with alternative transportation methods and barriers to entry and provide workshops to local businesses to address questions or concerns in developing TDM plans.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Phase 2
T-5f Through the Regional Climate Committee, employ a multi-jurisdictional representative to support HTA and local jurisdictions in pursuing grants such as the Sustainable Communities Competitive, Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program, State Transportation Improvement Program, etc., to expand public and active transit services and infrastructure.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 2
Measure T-6: Decarbonize 15% of passenger vehicle miles traveled by 2030 and 100% by 2045 through increased adoption of low and zero-emission vehicles and development of a regional electric vehicle charging and hydrogen fueling network.
T-6a Through the Regional Climate Committee partner with local organizations and community groups throughout the County to distribute outreach and promotional materials to residents and local businesses on the financial, environmental, and health and safety benefits of ZEVs and alternative fueling options. Provide information on available funding opportunities.
Climate Committee
Municipal Community
Development
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-6b Regional Climate Committee will identify jurisdictions or land-use zones, such as the Coastal Zone, that may benefit from a streamlined public and private EV infrastructure permitting process or Categorical Exemption and draft an ordinance in accordance with AB 1236. The Regional Climate Committee will develop the program as a template to be distributed to applicable jurisdictions for a coordinated approach and relieve individual jurisdiction workload on program development.
Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Phase 2
217
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
118
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-6c The Regional Climate Committee with work with local jurisdictions to amend the Municipal Code to promote EV chargers in new development, redevelopment, and existing parking spaces. This may include requiring:
Multifamily – CalGreen Tier 2 provisions
Non-Residential – CalGreen Tier 2 provisions
Designate 10 percent of parking spaces in urbanized areas as EV charging spaces Require that employers with over 25 employees designate preferred parking spaces for zero emission vehicles or hybrids only
Require that new private parking lots grant ZEVs access to preferred parking spaces. Require that existing parking in downtown areas grant ZEV access to preferred parking spaces.
Require larger residential rental building owners (more than 15 tenants) and large commercial building owners (more than 10,000 square feet) to install working electric vehicle chargers in 10 percent of parking spaces for new and existing buildings at time of renovation if projects are valued at $1,000,000 or greater Climate Committee
Municipal
Planning/Building
Board of Supervisors
Phase 2
T-6d Support ZEV car share companies in coming to the region. In jurisdictions with prevalent or planned development of multifamily housing, identify private sector partnerships and develop affordable, zero-emission vehicle car share programs with a priority to target vulnerable communities across all jurisdictions, promoting an accessible ZEV network.
Municipal
Planning/Building
Municipal Public Works
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-6e For high employment areas, work with interested parties to develop new public access charging stations. Work with RCEA to develop partnerships with other charging companies (e.g. Go Station) as needed to accommodate charging station needs. Apply for Federal Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) grant to install electric vehicle chargers at community centers and in high employment areas.
Municipal
Planning/Building
RCEA
Phase 2
T-6f Partner with RCEA to provide an EV Monthly Bill Discount Program with increased discount opportunities for low-income customers in each jurisdiction. Promote affordable EV charging rates at jurisdiction-owned EV charging stations and adjust rates as necessary to cover program costs. Explore methods for charging different rates for different user groups or other programs to offset charging costs at public stations for low-income residents.
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 2
218
Implementation
Final Report 119
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-6g Regional Climate Committee will work with interested parties and RCEA to expand home and public fueling/charging station ZEV infrastructure in alignment with RCEA RePower Plan goals and address barriers to ZEV adoption which are not related to electric grid capacity limitations as outlined in the “North Coast and Upstate FCEV Readiness Plan.” Evaluate opportunities for curbside street level II chargers in urbanized residential areas where off-street parking is limited to provide equitable access to at home chargers.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 2 - 3
T-6h Regional Climate Committee, in partnership HCAOG, to lead the development of a Hydrogen Vehicle Infrastructure Implementation Plan for public access hydrogen facilities by 2030 which includes the following:
1. Evaluate a list of prioritized locations for hydrogen fueling stations across the County
2. Consideration of procurement needs and potential sourcing from appropriate hydrogen facilities
3. Identifies grant funding opportunities
Climate Committee
HCAOG
Phase 1 - 2
T-6i Based on the results of the Hydrogen Vehicle Implementation Plan, applicable jurisdictions with opportunities identified as high priority hydrogen fueling station locations will evaluate and promote public access hydrogen fuel station development.
Leverage the Regional Climate Committee and other regional partnerships to explore funding opportunities for hydrogen fueling infrastructure through the LCFS or PG&E EV Fast Charge Program as well as develop public-private partnerships to attract private developers to the region to build out ZEV infrastructure.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 2 - 3
T-6j Identify and promote incentives and financing options for residential EV charger installations such as applying for Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding.
Climate Committee
RCEA
Municipal
Planning/Building
Phase 1 -
ongoing
Measure T-7: Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle use and adoption to 10% by 2030 and 100% by 2045 through a regional charging network and development of hydrogen hubs
219
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
120
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-7a Through the Regional Climate Committee work with RCEA and the Schatz Energy Research Center (SERC) to refine and implement the North Coast Medium-Duty/Heavy-Duty Zero Emission Vehicle Readiness Blueprint for Humboldt County. As part of the refinement:
1. Conduct in depth study of physical siting opportunities and prioritize locations and a schedule to follow
2. Identify opportunities for local jurisdiction-supported accelerated fleet ZEV adoption and establish a strategy to promote ZEV/EV adoption within business fleets
3. For high priority fleets, establish a strategy and protocol to collaborate with PG&E
4. For high priority fleets, conduct a grid planning study to identify necessary infrastructure upgrades to support a fully built-out fleet and coordinate with PG&E regarding needs
Climate Committee
RCEA
Phase 1 – Phase
3 T-7b Work with the Regional Climate Committee and RCEA to secure funding from state and utility programs (such as the California Air Resources Board's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, the Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program, LCFS, and the PG&E EV Fast Charge Program) and federal sources to increase procurement of EV or ZEV cars, trucks, and other vehicles and installation of EV/ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure.
Additionally, provide information to businesses on state and federal programs to help businesses pursue conversion of fleets to ZEVs.
Municipal Public Works
RCEA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-7c Conduct an inventory of business vehicle fleets in each jurisdiction and identify and engage with employers and businesses subject to the Advanced Clean Fleets rule as well as those to target for accelerating ZEV/EV adoption. As part of the study, identify private trucking company or manufacturer partnership opportunities for piloting new ZEV technology in the region.
Climate Committee
Municipal Facility
Management
Phase 1 - 2
220
Implementation
Final Report 121
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-7d Direct the Regional Climate Committee to partner with RCEA and SERC to work with local fleet operators, vehicle operators, and fleet maintenance staff to develop a comprehensive training program, including hosting workforce development trainings to discussing the benefits and technical requirements of ZEV fleets and supporting infrastructure. In addition to retraining the existing workforce, advertise and promote opportunities in the area to attract additional workforce support such as ZEV technicians and mechanics, and charging and fueling technicians.
Climate Committee
RCEA
SERC
Phase 2
T-7e The Program Manager will research and obtain funding and work with HTA to identify locations and expand hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
Climate Committee
HTA
Phase 2 - 3
Measure T-8: Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 12% of applicable small off-road engines (SOREs) off-road equipment by 2030 and 100% by 2045 and replace fossil diesel consumption with renewable diesel in 55% of applicable large diesel in alignment with EO N-79-20 by 2030.
T-8a Align with AB 1346 and develop and circulate educational materials regarding CARB’s Small-Off Road Engines regulations requiring most newly manufactured small off-road engines such as those found in leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and other equipment to be zero emission starting in Model Year 2024. Phase 2 of the regulations will be implemented in Model Year 2028, when the emission standards for generators and large pressure washers will be zero. In addition, work with Humboldt Chamber of Commerce to disseminate information regarding the regulation to impacted businesses (e.g., lawn equipment dealers, commercial landscapers, construction companies) and promote transition of equipment sales and equipment use to electric alternatives.
Municipal Public Works
Municipal Facility
Management
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-8b Regional Climate Committee to identify pathways to enforce CARB’s In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation and the Commercial Harbor Craft Regulation requiring that diesel vehicles over 25 horsepower to procure and only use R99 or R100 renewable diesel. This should include establishing a means to track compliance and developing partnerships with fuel suppliers in the region to promote and support the increased procurement of renewable diesel in the region.
Climate Committee Phase 1
221
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
122
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-8c Work with the Regional Climate Committee to develop and implement a plan to replace all jurisdiction owned end-of-life off-road equipment with zero-emission equipment as feasible. Procure renewable diesel for applicable jurisdiction owned diesel equipment that doesn’t have available replacement equipment. Plan should include evaluation of current jurisdiction-owned equipment, alternative low or zero-emission options, prioritize equipment to replace first (e.g., largest GHG emission reduction potential), and a timeline for replacements that align with goals and feasibility of replacement.
Municipal Public Works Phase 2
T-8d The Regional Climate Committee will develop and manage an Off-road Equipment Replacement Program and Outreach Campaign that provides information to contractors, residents, and fleet operators in the region regarding alternatives to fossil-fueled off-road equipment, local fuel suppliers with renewable diesel for sale, public health and safety benefits of alternative equipment technology, and funding opportunities available (i.e., Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Program), Zero-Emission Landscaping Equipment Incentive Programs).
Climate Committee Phase 1 – 2
T-8e Through the Regional Climate Committee, Partner with North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District to identify funding opportunities to encourage residents to replace gas-powered landscaping equipment and off-road engines with zero emission equipment.
This could include a rebate and incentive program for upgrading off-road equipment and switching to renewable diesel, or the development of an off-road zero emission landscaping equipment rental share program for county residents and businesses.
Climate Committee Phase 1
T-8f Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to source State and Federal funding to decarbonize off-road equipment as a result of Executive Order N-79-20.
Climate Committee Phase 2
Measure T-9: Establish Humboldt as a pilot program for the decarbonization of the transportation sector to help drive State and philanthropic investment throughout Humboldt.
T-9a The Regional Climate Committee will develop and promote a vision and strategy for the regional community foundation to serve as a first-mover/pilot in the State in the decarbonization of America's rural transportation systems.
Climate Committee
HCOAG
HTA
Phase 2
T-9b As a first-mover in rural America, the Regional Climate Committee will pursue investment on behalf of the jurisdictions from philanthropy, the State, private businesses, etc. to fund the development of a Humboldt decarbonized rural transportation system.
Climate Committee
HCOAG
Phase 2 - 3
222
Implementation
Final Report 123
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-9c With the support of the Regional Climate Committee, jurisdictions will directly engage members of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities in the development of the vision and strategy that aims to benefit all members of rural communities.
Municipal Community
Development
Climate Committee
Phase 2
Measure T-10: Work with the State and renewable fuel industry to establish a renewable fuel network within Humboldt thereby funding new green industry and job growth to support the decarbonization of the transportation sector T-10a The Regional Climate Committee will lead establishing a memorandum of understanding with RCEA, PG&E, CARB, CAL FIRE, the California Department of Agriculture, forest owners, and waste management companies to establish a plan to manage biomass and organic waste through the development of biofuel infrastructure in the region to position Humboldt as a first mover in active forest management to support a carbon-free future for California.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
RCEA
Phase 1
T-10b The Regional Climate Committee will work jurisdiction to identify and help zone and entitle opportunity locations and specific areas throughout the region for streamlined development of renewable generation facilities where applicable. As part of effort, develop guidelines for evaluating renewable opportunities that meet sustainability criteria such as those set in the Natural Resources Defense Council's "Biofuel Sustainability Performance Guidelines" to limit environmental impacts related to renewable production.
Municipal Public Works Phase 1
T-10c The Regional Climate Committee will work with RCEA, PG&E, and State agencies to explore funding opportunities including grants and green bonds to help fund the development of renewable fuel infrastructure in the region and explore revenue options through the Low Carbon Fuel Standard.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
RCEA
Phase 1
223
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
124
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-10d Establish Humboldt as a hydrogen hub by:
1. Promoting the pending The U.S. Department of Energy funded HTA hydrogen fueling station to attract additional hydrogen fueling station developers to the region
2. Partner with RCEA, SERC, and CalTrans, where applicable, to identify sites for hydrogen fueling stations that build off the North Coast and Upstate Regional Hydrogen Infrastructure Plan
3. Pursue partnerships with private developers to develop additional hydrogen fueling stations in the region
4. Pursue funding opportunities for hydrogen fueling infrastructure, such as through LCSF, AB 8 program, and the CEC Clean Transportation Program Municipal Public Works
(county)
RCEA
Phase 2 - 3
T-10e The Regional Climate Committee, in partnership with applicable incorporated cities will work with local utilities and State agencies to pursue grants earmarked for biofuel infrastructure from the Inflation Reduction Act.
Municipal Public Works Phase 2
T-10f The Regional Climate Committee will establish partnerships with organic waste haulers to establish a consistent feedstock of waste biomass from forests and biowaste from residential and agricultural sources and forest service businesses/property owners.
Climate Committee
Fire Department
Phase 2 - 3
T-10g Partner with the forestry services and waste haulers to host an Outreach Campaign informing the community on the economic and wildfire risk benefits of active forest management for bioenergy. Establish a working group/committee to involve local community members and businesses in the planning processes related to biomass and biowaste management locally.
Climate Committee
Fire Department
(county)
Forestry Service (county)
Phase 1
T-10h Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to create a region-wide workforce development programs to train the local workforce for biofuel jobs. Specifically target training towards members of disadvantaged communities and establish criteria in the planning process that prioritizes/requires the employment of local residents and businesses in the industry.
Climate Committee Phase 2 - 3
Measure T-11: Lead by example and electrify or otherwise decarbonize 50% municipal fleets by 2030 in alignment with the State’s Advanced Clean Fleet Rule.
224
Implementation
Final Report 125
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
T-11a Regional Climate Committee will develop a Zero-emission Fleet Conversion and Purchase Policy to be adopted by each jurisdiction that requires new, and replacement of, municipal fleet vehicle purchases to be EVs or ZEVs. The policy will also include a schedule for replacement of fleet vehicles to comply with the State’s Advanced Clean Fleet rule requiring 50 percent of medium and heavy-duty vehicle purchases be zero-emissions beginning in 2024 and 100 percent beginning in 2027. Report annually to CARB on fleet status as required per the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation.
Municipal Facility
Management
Climate Committee
Phase 1
T-11b Leverage the Regional Climate Committee conduct a feasibility and cost assessment to determine the number of EV/ZEV chargers and funds needed to support the fleet transition to 50 percent EV/ZEV by 2030.
Municipal Facility
Management
Climate Committee
Phase 1
T-11c The Regional Climate Committee will secure funding from programs such as the California Air Resources Board's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project and the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program to increase procurement of EV or ZEV cars, trucks, and other vehicles and installation of EV/ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure at municipal facilities. Evaluate credit generation opportunities within the LCFS program or other available programs for ZEV/EV fueling and charging stations for the municipal fleet to offset cost of infrastructure development needed to support transition.
Municipal Facility
Management
Climate Committee
Phase 1 -
ongoing
T-11d Install additional ZEV chargers/fueling stations in municipal parking lots for fleet, employees, and public use to meet projected demand in alignment with feasibility study.
Municipal Facility
Management
Municipal Public Works
Phase 1 - 2
T-11e Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to develop a resolution in alignment with Measure T-8a, to replace jurisdiction-owned end-of-life small off-road equipment with electric equipment (e.g., lawn equipment and leaf blowers) at time of replacement and to procure renewable diesel for all applicable jurisdiction owned equipment. Each jurisdiction will need to adopt the resolution while the Regional Climate Committee will support implementation.
Municipal Facility
Management
Phase 1
Measure SW-1: Establish a local waste separation facility and organics management to be able to reduce waste sent to landfills by 75% by 2030. Reduce GHG emissions by limiting truck trips required to ship waste out of the County and import compost from out of the County 225
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
126
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
SW-1a Regional Climate Committee to work with Humboldt Waste Management Authority (HWMA) and Recology to develop a SB 1383 waste management plan which assesses county-wide waste diversion needs, current capacity, and land-use opportunities for developing organic waste processing facilities within Humboldt County that will meet regional requirements. The assessment should also include an analysis of green bond funding opportunities, applicable green bond programs, and a strategic plan for pursuing funding through green bond programs.
Climate Committee
HWMA
Recology
Phase 1
SW-1b The Regional Climate Committee will work with HWMA and an underwriter at a desired green bond program identified in the feasibility study to develop a green bond focused on providing funding for HWMA to construct a regional organics processing facility that will be used to meet SB 1383 diversion and procurement requirements.
Climate Committee
HWMA
Phase 1 - 2
SW-1c Through the Regional Climate Committee, partner with Recology and/or HWMA to pursue funding, such as the Organics Grant Program from CalRecycle or for projects through California Climate Investment, to reduce generated organic waste from multi-family homes and expand waste diversions programs within the County.
Climate Committee
HWMA
Recology
Phase 1
226
Implementation
Final Report 127
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
SW-1d Meet the requirements of SB 1383 to reduce organics in the waste stream by 75 percent below 2014 levels by 2030 and work towards 90 percent solid waste diversion by 2040 in applicable jurisdictions by leveraging the Regional Climate Committee to provide implementation support. Include activities such as:
1. Implement enforcement and fee for incorrectly sorted materials with sensitivity to shared collection. Utilize funding to implement programs and efforts to increase communitywide organic waste diversion
2. Assure adequate bin signage across commercial and residential areas of acceptable landfill, recyclable, and compostable materials
3. Identify public areas for adding organics collection and recycling bins where needed
4. Work with Recology and HWMA to conduct free food scrap collection pail giveaways and promote curbside organics collection service offered in applicable communities
5. Evaluate opportunities to have community compost hubs throughout the County that is easily accessible for community members. Partner with regional community gardens to increase community wide access to local compost bins
6. Identify long-term and alternate solutions for the community’s wastewater bio-solids to avoid long hauling distances and develop local, beneficial reuse.
Municipal Public Works
HWMA
Phase 1 -
ongoing
227
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
128
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
SW-1e Leverage Regional Climate Committee to draft a templated edible food recovery ordinance for individual jurisdictions to modify and adopt as needed. Alternatively utilize the County’s adopted ordinance, HCC 521-13 as a template or guide for drafting ordinances in individual jurisdictions that do not currently have such an ordinance. The ordinance will target edible food generators, food recovery services, or organizations that are required to comply with SB 1383. Ordinance requires all residential and commercial customers to subscribe to an organic waste collection program and/or report self-hauling or backhauling of organics. To support implementation of the ordinance, include the following activities:
1. Work with community food pantries, food suppliers, HWMA, and Recology to identify infrastructure needs to ensure edible food reuse infrastructure in Humboldt is sufficient to accept capacity needed to recover 20 percent of edible food disposed of within Humboldt
2. Regional Climate Committee to work with jurisdictions to establish an edible food recovery program where they are not currently present to minimize food waste. Expand food rescue programs by increasing cold storage capacity, include education and outreach efforts, and incorporate collection/distribution network among businesses, local institutions, and grocery stores.
3. Leverage CalRecycle funding opportunities to support projects that prevent food waste, increase cold storage, or rescue edible food
4. Partner with existing food pantries that are locally appropriate for each jurisdiction to identify and advertise locations for surplus food to be taken in the community
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
Board of Supervisors
Phase 2
SW-1f The Regional Climate Committee will work with HWMA, Recology and individual jurisdictions to implement structural changes listed above and increase service to jurisdictions without organics collection. This is applicable to both jurisdictions subject to SB 1383 and SB 1383 exempt jurisdictions to prepare for future needs to comply with SB 1383.
Municipal Public Works
HWMA
Recology
Phase 2
228
Implementation
Final Report 129
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
SW-1g Regional Climate Committee will coordinate between HWMA and regional wastewater treatment facilities to evaluate the opportunities to process/ co-digest food waste at the wastewater treatment plants. Study should include evaluating existing infrastructure and ability to process food waste, an evaluation of necessary infrastructure upgrades needed to process food waste that would comply with SB 1383 standards for recovered organic products, and a return-on-investment evaluation. Study should also include recommendations of viable opportunities and identification of funding opportunities to support implementation and facility upgrades as necessary.
Municipal Public Works
HWMA
Phase 2 - 3
SW-1h The Regional Climate Committee in partnership with Recology and HWMA, will develop and conduct a conduct a Bring Your Own (BYO) education and outreach training for each jurisdiction community on reusables and implementing more sustainable packaging into daily use. The Regional Climate Committee will develop and provide information resources on HWMA and jurisdiction’s websites. Partner with libraries and other existing facilities to market campaigns about waste reductions, reuse and repair.
Municipal Public Works
HWMA
Recology
Phase 1
SW-1i Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to provide technical and outreach support to jurisdictions with organics and/or recycling services, by establishing relationships with multi-family property owners/managers to develop signage for their properties and to go door-to-door at each multi-family unit yearly to provide supplies and promote proper sorting.
Municipal Public Works
HWMA
Phase 1 - 3
SW-1j HWMA to add extra bulky-item pick up service in all jurisdictions to low- and medium-income residents at a subsided cost to help minimize illegal dumping.Municipal Public Works HWMA
Phase 2
SW-1k The Regional Climate Committee will facilitate conducting waste characterization studies every 3 years to inform programs and policies. Leverage study to understand the waste stream and create a plan to increase diversion and reduce contamination. Work with contracted waste haulers and HWMA to develop and implement a comprehensive monitoring and quality control program with a focus on consumer behavior change. This should include tracking of weight or volume of waste produced; consider including information on billing to inform customer of their waste production and including incentives for reduction. Explore reducing frequency of service for residential and commercial waste to least often possible pick up to reduce truck miles/trips.
Municipal Public Works
HWMA
Phase 1 - 3
229
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
130
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
SW-1l Through the Regional Climate Committee create a multi-lingual training/outreach program that can be used in all jurisdictions that is free and accessible to all residents and employees to learn about circular economy practices and diversion strategies and effects of overconsumption. Conduct targeted, multi-lingual, culturally appropriate, and geographically diverse circular economy educational and technical assistance campaigns based on outcomes of waste characterization studies and comprehensive monitoring and quality control program. Topics could include reuse, prolonging the life of common materials and items, and sustainable purchasing. Focus outreach campaign on food waste not going to landfill.
Climate Committee Phase 1
SW-1m Utilize the Regional Climate Committee to partner with schools, retirement communities, and other large institutions throughout the County to create waste diversion and prevention program/procedure/plan.
Climate Committee
HWMA
Phase 2 - 3
SW-1n The Program Manager will work with regional partners to develop and implement packaging bans to reduce the use of single-use plastics and excess waste proliferation in the waste stream.
Climate Committee Phase 2 - 3
Measure WW-1: Expand regional opportunities for implementation of wastewater decarbonization technologies such as anaerobic digesters to reduce GHG and produce renewable fuel sources
WW-1a Regional Climate Committee to conduct a feasibility study(s) in jurisdictions with wastewater processing facilities or community primary reliance on septic systems identifying improved wastewater technologies which could be used to mitigate wastewater processing emissions and generate renewable fuel such as RNG or offset on-site process energy use via electricity generated with an anaerobic digester, particularly in relation to septic system improvements. The study should include an in-depth analysis of the current wastewater treatment methods utilized throughout the region, identification of upgrade opportunities and potential co-benefits to the community, and technological restrictions based on regional water quality and discharge requirements.
The study should also specifically consider expanding wastewater treatment capabilities to process food waste that would otherwise go to landfill.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 2
WW-1b The Regional Climate Committee will partner with regional wastewater service providers to understand current methods, areas for improvement, and whether there is interest in upgrading their wastewater treatment processes.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 2
230
Implementation
Final Report 131
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
WW-1c The Regional Climate Committee, with input from the wastewater treatment providers, will research and pursue grants to wastewater facility upgrades or home septic system improvements (where applicable), such as applying to the California State Water Board for Clean Water State Revolving Fund grants, or the Community Development Block Grant Program.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 3
Measure WW-2 Reduce per capita potable water consumption by 15% by 2030.
WW-2a The Regional Climate Committee will work with regional water providers to update their Urban Water Management Plan every 5 years, as required by the State, and implement the identified demand reduction actions to ensure compliance with the State’s Making Water Conservation a Way of Life regulations. Include new actions in the UWMPs as needed to achieve State regulations, which may include:
1. Develop or amend Water Shortage Contingency Plans in the region to develop water waste restrictions for households, businesses, industries, and public infrastructure
2. Work with large water users, and other stakeholders to develop an On-Site Water Reuse Plan to maximize utilization of local water supplies decreasing energy intensity of distribution
3. Revisit and update the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance as needed.
Engage, through regional partnerships, with builders and developers to provide information on the requirements for development projects
4. Develop an ordinance for installation of dual-plumbing water systems that utilize greywater or recycled water for irrigation at new residential and commercial construction
5. Increase engagement with the community, specifically low-to-moderate income residents, to understand available incentives or rebates, options, and programs to reduce per capita water use. Leverage regional programs and partnerships with local organizations to expand water conservation outreach
6. Revise water and wastewater rates as necessary to ensure cost of service is covered
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 1 - 2
231
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
132
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
WW-2b Through the Regional Climate Committee work with the Humboldt County Resource Conservation District (HCRCD) to develop water conservation promotional materials, programs and outreach efforts are in multiple languages and accessible for low-income or disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. Continue to offer and expand water conservation programs to the community including educational programs like water education program for schools and water wise landscape classes as well as incentives like free water conserving deceives, and rebates for rain water collection systems and turf replacement.
Climate Committee Phase 1
WW-2c The Regional Climate Committee will work with the local water and wastewater providers in the region to develop a Recycled Water Master Plan to assess the feasibility of expanding the recycled water system in the region and establish a roadmap for a recycled water expansion program. The plan will identify locations available for recycled water use and establish a schedule for potable water replacement with recycled water in appropriate applications residentially, commercially, and municipally, and determine recycled water user fees.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 2 - 3
Measure CS-1: Research and implement feasible carbon sequestration technology opportunities to support growth and expansion of green jobs industry within the region
CS-1a Conduct a carbon sequestration feasibility study facilitated by the Regional Climate Committee to identify emergent technology for carbon sequestration and regional viability of implementation, including consideration of identified carbon sequestration technology facilities (e.g. ocean carbon capture, agriculture methane capture, forest biomass to biochar soil amendment, biochar wastewater filtration, forest biomass as green hydrogen fuel, etc).
Climate Committee Phase 2
CS-1b As part of Regional Climate Committee responsibilities established in Measure C-1, work with RCEA, HWMA, wastewater facilities, local tribes, businesses, and other applicable interested parties as appropriate to address potential carbon sequestration technologies available to the region, understand limitations and barriers, and develop solution pathways to implementation.
Climate Committee
RCEA
HWMA
Phase 2
CS-1c Based on feasibility study, leverage the Regional Climate Committee to explore partnerships with technology providers and regional research laboratories (e.g. Cal Poly) for viable carbon sequestration technologies to deploy carbon sequestration pilot projects in the region.
Climate Committee Phase 3
232
Implementation
Final Report 133
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
CS-1d The Regional Climate Committee shall dedicate staff time or a representative for researching emergent carbon sequestration technologies and potential grant funding sources. This will include researching the potential for wetland conservation and exploring regional mitigation banking.
Climate Committee Phase 2
Measure CS-2: Offset fossil-based emissions and increase carbon sequestration in the community by achieving SB 1383 procurement requirements (0.08 tons recovered organic waste per person) by 2030.
CS-2a Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to support jurisdictions in enforcing compliance with SB 1383 and aim to exceed the baseline requirement by establishing a minimum level of compost application per year on applicable/appropriate land throughout the region. Maintain procurement policies to comply with SB 1383 requirements for jurisdictions to purchase recovered organic waste products.
Municipal Public Works Phase 1 -
ongoing
CS-2b Regional Climate Committee to facilitate the establishment of a compost broker program primarily in rural jurisdictions central to agricultural industries which provides agricultural communities with incentives such as subsidies or community shared compost application equipment to aid in the procurement and distribution of high-quality compost.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 1
CS-2c The Regional Climate Committee will work with Recology to provide residents, businesses, and developers with promotional material on where compost can be taken and how it can be used (i.e., landscaping).
Climate Committee
Recology
Phase 1
CS-2d The Regional Climate Committee will work with Recology, HWMA, and community-based organizations to provide free compost procurement services to low-income households and small businesses in all jurisdictions.
Municipal Public Works Phase 2
CS-2e The Regional Climate Committee will facilitate a soil assessment study to identify applicable locations and quantity of compost that can be applied within each jurisdiction to help meet the procurement requirements of SB 1383 and provide household incentives for small-scale implementation. As part of study, evaluate other carbon sequestration opportunities associated with soil amendments such as biochar.
Climate Committee Phase 1- 2
CS-2f Leverage the Regional Climate Committee to identify viable alternative opportunities for achieving SB 1383 compliance based on activities which are already occurring within the region (e.g. diversion of wastewater biosolids from landfill for agricultural application), or activities which provide co-benefits to the community (e.g. sourcing RNG to replace natural gas consumption, diversion of lumber or yard waste from landfill to be used to produce green hydrogen).
Climate Committee Phase 2
233
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
134
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
CS-2g The Regional Climate Committee with dedicate staff time for researching alternative pathways for achieving SB 1383 compliance and obtaining grant funding for procurement and distribution incentive programs across all jurisdictions.
Climate Committee Phase 2
CS-2h Through the Regional Climate Committee collaborate with local schools, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation to identify opportunities to apply compost to landscaping, potentially in addition to open space land conservation efforts.
Municipal Public Works
Climate Committee
Phase 2
CS-2i In jurisdictions currently subject to SB 1383 requirements, utilize the Regional Climate Committee to work with regional organic waste haulers (Recology) and local small-scale commercial composters (e.g. The Local Worm Guy) to identify opportunities for a regional compost procurement program to help meet and exceed the organics procurement provisions of SB 1383 as well as streamline hauler routes through regional collaboration.
Municipal Public Works
Recology
Phase 1 - 2
Measure CS-3: Develop a County-wide Natural and Working Lands GHG Inventory baseline by 2027 to better understand the existing and future GHG sequestration and help obtain resources to protect and increase natural carbon sequestration occurring in the region as well as promote biodiverse forests and wetlands resistant to wildfire
CS-3a The County will partner with the North Coast Resource Partnership and other interested parties to develop an updated, Humboldt specific natural and working lands GHG Inventory which builds off of the 2017 northern California regional study conducted by the North Coast Resource Partnership. Development of the GHG Inventory should include consideration of requirements specified by prospective grant programs the region would like to pursue.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Phase 1
CS-3b The Regional Climate Committee will apply for at least one grant (e.g. Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program) every three years for obtaining grant funding for restoration and preservation activities with a focus on projects that have been unable to be fully completed due to funding constraints.
Climate Committee Phase 1 - 3
CS-3c The Regional Climate Committee will work with interested parties, local tribes, and agricultural communities to identify opportunities for expanding wetland conservation areas in a manner that equitably addresses tribal and agricultural interests.
Climate Committee Phase 2
234
Implementation
Final Report 135
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
CS-3d The Regional Climate Committee and County will work with CalFire and Humboldt County Resource Conservation District to increase necessary equipment and infrastructure resources to better maintain public and private forested area with focus on understory clearing to prevent wildfire.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Fire Department
Phase 2
CS-3e The Regional Climate Committee and the County will work with Humboldt County Resource Conservation District and interested parties to identify challenges and barriers for private sector landowners to implement forest best management practices as identified by CalFire and the Humboldt County Resource Conservation District.
Climate Committee
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Phase 1 - 2
CS-3f The Regional Climate Committee will support rural communities with the development of a community-based volunteer program supporting restoration project activity to create a maintained restoration process. This may involve partnering with local community organizations to communicate sequestration opportunities and facilitate volunteer maintenance projects.
Climate Committee Phase 2 - 3
CS-3g Through County efforts, facilitate annual reporting as part of the restoration plan mapping the existing restoration projects and open space lands to gauge progress in restoration activities over time as well as identify any gaps in maintenance activities related to ongoing projects. Incorporate GHG calculations into this monitoring plan to report on the region’s contribution as a GHG source or sink.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Phase 2 - 3
CS-3h Engage with third-party to audit the Natural and Working Lands inventory and monitoring reports. Update County-wide inventory to include GHG emissions and sinks from Natural and Working lands in the region. Leverage this data to pursue State funding to protect the regions resource as a GHG sink for the State.
Municipal Public Works
(county)
Phase 2
Measure R-1: Prepare a baseline analysis of the volume of HFCs released into the atmosphere and evaluate whether these releases are being adequately addressed by CARB or whether the County should supplement the work of CARB 235
County of Humboldt
Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan
136
Action ID Action Responsible Parties Timeframe
R-1a Regional Climate Committee to initiate a study of the information available relative to emissions of refrigerants with a high global warming potential in Humboldt County. This study is intended to develop a baseline of emissions for harmful refrigerants. Once this baseline is established the study will coordinate with CARB to determine how the emissions are being tracked and being reduced. The study will then identify areas where emissions of refrigerants are not being addressed and identify potential methods in which the emission of refrigerants may be minimized. Prior to the report being provided to the Regional Climate Committee it shall be provided to CARB for review and comment and shall be provided to stakeholders who use refrigerants for their review and comment. The comments from CARP and stakeholders shall be reflected in the final report provided to the Regional Climate Committee.
Climate Committee Phase 2
R-1b The Regional Climate Committee will partner with CARB to understand the existing regulatory context and coordinate with refrigerant users to understand the processes and technology availability and cost.
Climate Committee Phase 2
R-1c The Regional Climate Committee, will pursue grants to cover the cost of this work. Climate Committee Phase 1 - 2 236
Regional Climate Action Plan
RCEA Board of Directors Meeting
January 22, 2026
Beth Burks
Executive Director
Regional Climate Action Plan
From: Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan, pg 22 Regional Climate Committee
Regional Climate Manager
• Leads the implementation and monitoring of the regional climate action plan
• Facilitates Regional Climate Committee Activities
• Coordinates with regional partners/ jurisdictions
• Pursues outside funding
• Initially funded through contributions from jurisdictions, with long term funding at least partially offset by grants.
Action Requested:
• Provide direction to staff to further explore RCEA as the host for the RCAP Regional Climate Committee and regional climate manager.
Items that would come back for decision: feedback from
working group, funding and staffing plan, and sample
MOU’s with jurisdictions
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