MEETING MINUTES
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
9:00 A.M.
___________________________________________________________
CALL TO ORDER
(9:01 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:01:05)
Chair Barnacle called the meeting to order.
Board Members present: Chair Barnacle, Vice Chair Elward, Directors Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, and Alternate Director Mulheren.
Directors Hopkins, Fleming and Potter were absent.
Staff present: Geof Syphers, Chief Executive Officer; Michael Koszalka, Chief Operating Officer; Garth Salisbury, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer; Stephanie Reynolds, Director of Internal Operations; Chris Golik, Senior Finance Manager; Ryan Tracey, Director of Planning & Analytics; Claudia Sisomphou, Public Affairs & Advocacy Manager; Miles Horton, Legislative Policy & Community Engagement Manager; Neal Reardon, Director of Regulatory Affairs; Rebecca Simonson, Director of Capital Projects and Engineering, and Josh Nelson, Special Counsel.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONSENT CALENDAR
(9:01 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:01:47)
1. Approve July 10, 2025, Draft Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
2. Receive Monthly Financial Report
3. Receive Geothermal Opportunity Zone Update
4. Receive Internal Operations Report
5. Receive Legislative and Regulatory Updates
Chair Barnacle pointed out that he had previously asked for more information on SCP’s work with small businesses and additional information was provided in item 4. Director Ferrar-Rivas thanked Garth Salisbury, Chief Financial Officer, for the additional information provided in the financial report.
Motion to approve July 10, 2025, Board of Directors Consent Calendar by Director Zollman
Second: Director Farrar-Rivas
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter, Hopkins
BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR CALENDAR
6. Appoint an Ad Hoc Committee for the Community Advisory Committee Recruitment Process
(9:05 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:04:40)
Chair Barnacle explained that he has asked Director Albin-Smith to serve on this committee to ensure someone from Mendocino is on it. Directors Lemus, Zollman, and Farrar-Rivas volunteered to make up the rest of the Ad Hoc Committee.
Public Comment: None
Motion to approve the appointment of an Ad Hoc Committee for the Community Advisory Committee Recruitment Process by Director Zollman Second: Vice Chair Elward
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter, Hopkins
7. Receive Update on Tribal Engagement Efforts
(9:07 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:07:05)
Claudia Sisomphou, Public Affairs and Advocacy Manager provided an update on tribal engagement efforts.
Director Zollman asked if SCP has reached out to Progressive Tribal Alliance about finding other tribes in the area. Ms. Sisomphou confirmed that SCP has engaged with them and has started communications. Director Lemus shared that she believes this could be a model for other organizations who serve tribal communities. Director Farrar-Rivas suggested that SCP could connect with a tribe that Sonoma Ecology Center is currently working with. Vice Chair, Elward, recognized the efforts that staff have been making with tribes. Director Albin-Smith requested a list of the participating tribes.
Public Comment: None
9:08 a.m. Director Hopkins entered the meeting.
8. Approve Salary Increase and Annual Contract Goals for Chief Executive Officer Geof Syphers
(9:23 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:22:40)
Chair Barnacle stated that the Board had met in closed session after the last Board of Directors meeting where they approved a discretionary 3% increase based on performance. CEO Syphers gave a presentation on the performance of last year’s goals that were achieved. Highlighting the work Claudia Sisomphou, Public Affairs and Advocacy Manager, has been doing not just with tribal outreach, but with community relations and engagements as well as creating formal staff training on how to engage with new community groups.
CEO Syphers also thanked Garth Salisbury, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, for achieving ratepayer savings by structuring a prepayment of five of our power supply agreements.
Chair Barnacle pointed out that SCP has been recognized as one of the best places to work for the seventh year. CEO Syphers detailed next year’s goals.
Public Comment: None
Motion to Approve Salary Increase and Annual Contract Goals for Chief Executive Officer Geof Syphers by Director Hopkins
Second: Vice Chair Elward
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren, Hopkins
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter
9. Adopt a Resolution 2025-03 to Award the Construction Contract for the 421 E Street Tenant Improvement Project to the Low Bidder, Carr’s Construction Service, Inc. in the Amount of $1,526,000 and Authorize the Chief Executive Officer to Execute a Construction Contract and Approve Change Orders Up to Twenty Percent of the Contract Price
(9:40 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:39:40)
Rebecca Simonson, Director of Capital Projects and Engineering, discussed upcoming changes to be made to the 421 D Street building as well as Carr’s Construction Service ultimately providing the lowest bid for the project.
Director Farrar-Rivas questioned whether lowest bid is necessarily the best option as well as whether current economic conditions and construction material pricing volatility were adequately factored into the bid. Ms. Simonson explained that according to public contract code, SCP is required to go with the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Regarding construction costs, Carr’s Construction Service’s bid is secured for 90 days, so if their costs are increased, they would need to absorb that themselves. Director Laskey asked if there are liquidated damages associated with this contract. Ms. Simonson confirmed that there are in the form of delay damages.
Public Comment: None
Motion to Adopt a Resolution 2025-03 to Award the Construction Contract for the 421 E Street Tenant Improvement Project to the Low Bidder, Carr’s Construction Service, Inc. in the Amount of $1,526,000 and Authorize the Chief Executive Officer to Execute a Construction Contract and Approve Change Orders Up to Twenty Percent of the Contract Price by Director Farrar-Rivas Second: Director Hopkins
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren, Hopkins
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter
10.Approve Proposed Generation Rates Effective September 1, 2025 (9:48 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 00:47:30)
CEO Syphers introduced the item and provided background on the topic.
CEO Syphers explained that staff’s recommendation is to not only to make the rate adjustments, but also to adjust all the rate classes so that each class of customer has the same percentage of savings.
Director Farrar-Rivas asked what kind of communication goes out to the rate payers regarding rate prices. CEO Syphers explained that SCP has been very careful not to make rate savings SCP’s primary brand or identity, and continued that the Call Center staff has already been prepped for answering questions regarding the rate change. SCP would also update any other communication such as on the website and social media immediately starting September 1st.
Director Albin-Smith asked if SCP has a goal of how many customers on solar would it take to make energy more affordable for all other customers. CEO Syphers explained that adding solar to homes actually increases energy costs for all other customers, however, if solar customers are using the energy they’re producing when it’s made, it’s a net benefit to everyone.
Public Comment: None
Motion to Approve Proposed Generation Rates Effective September 1, 2025, by Vice Chair Elward
Second: Director Zollman
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren, Hopkins
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter
Item 12 taken out of order at the direction of Chair Barnacle
12.Adopt a Resolution 2025-04 Offering Participation in Sonoma Clean Power to Unincorporated Lake County, the City of Clearlake, and the City of Lakeport Subject to Specific Criteria
(10:02 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 01:02:30)
CEO Syphers introduced the item by providing some history regarding the offering of participation to Lake County. He stated that he has been attending town hall meetings in Lake County and described community concerns including the length of the commitment and SCP’s inability to guarantee lower rates. CEO Syphers stated that Lake County community members do appreciate the advocacy role that SCP can play and SCP’s community involvement. CEO Syphers explained that to avoid duplication of effort and higher costs, the proposal is to proceed with countywide participation as a package deal, requiring all three jurisdictions to opt in together. He outlined four criteria: (1) all jurisdictions must agree to participate; (2) jurisdictions must agree to abide by the Joint Powers Agreement; (3) jurisdictions must agree to join the GeoZone, with clarity that SCP must respect Lake County’s existing geothermal setback zone; and (4) SCP will waive the standard delay in program and rebate access, allowing Lake County customers to benefit immediately upon service start, as a goodwill gesture. He explained that the start date would likely be May 1st, 2027.
Director Farrar-Rivas asked what it means to join the GeoZone. CEO Syphers explained that the formation of a geothermal opportunity zone is a demonstration of commitment and intention to support the development of advanced geothermal power sources in participating counties. Chair Barnacle expressed support to offer service and the proposed timeline. Director Farrar-Rivas asked how geothermal power’s significant need for water affects Lake County. CEO Syphers explained that the new types of closed-loop geothermal technologies SCP is pursuing use a lot less water than traditional systems.
Public Comment: None
Motion to Approve Proposed Generation Rates Effective September 1, 2025, by Director Hopkins
Second: Vice Chair Elward
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren, Hopkins
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter
11.Receive Presentation on Funding Partnership and Loan Opportunity for Local Small Business Support Hub; Approve $500,000 Funding Partnership and Delegate Authority to the Chief Executive Officer to Negotiate and Finalize Details on a Secured Loan to Nexo Media Foundation 501(c)3 Not to Exceed $4 Million
(10:28 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 01:28:24)
CEO Syphers began by providing some brief history regarding the item and introduced Hector Velazquez from Nexo Media Foundation and with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, who has played a big role in the development of the Hub. Hector gave a slideshow presentation on how the Hub would provide opportunities for small local businesses. CEO Syphers explained that SCP does a lot of giving back to the community and would like to see if by partnering on this endeavor if SCP can get more efficient in its community giving.
Director Lemus expressed appreciation for Mr. Velazquez taking the feedback that the Ad Hoc committee provided him with and supported the plan.
Director Albin-Smith suggested that Mr. Velazquez work with the Economic Development and Finance Corporation (EDFC) and explained that it is a government sponsored agency where businesses can apply for startup funds.
Vice Chair Elward asked Mr. Velazquez if they are planning on having some of the leaders from other organizations join the leadership team on this Hub project. Mr. Velazquez assured that everyone’s input will be valuable, and they want to make sure it’s an equitable place. Director Hopkins shared her excitement for this project, stating that it would be a place where all the resources can be found as well as somewhere for the community to get together. Chair Barnacle asked if there is a location in mind for the Hub. Mr.
Velazquez shared that the locations they are considering would be located close to public transportation accessibility. Director Lemus shared that she would like to see resources to educate small business owners on more sustainable practices. Vice Chair Elward requested reports be provided to show how the Hub is working with different businesses. CEO Syphers explained that continued communication and reporting will be a requirement.
Public Comment: Hugo Mata, a founder of the economic launchpad, talked about the Hub being a one-stop shop for underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Leo Callejas, Chair of the Northern Region for the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, wrote in to express support. Laurie Fong also wrote in to express support for the Hub and how it would benefit AAPIC members.
Nancy Rogers, CEO of the North Bay Black Chambers of Commerce and Entrepreneur of Tomorrow, talked about the need for the Hub to represent different communities and expressed support.
Motion to Approve $500,000 Funding Partnership and Delegate Authority to the Chief Executive Officer to Negotiate and Finalize Details on a Secured Loan to Nexo Media Foundation 501(c)3 Not to Exceed $4 Million by: Director Farrar-Rivas.
Second: Vice Chair Elward
Motion passed by roll call vote
AYES: Laskey, Lemus, Albin-Smith, Barnacle, Elward, Zollman, Farrar-Rivas, Mulheren, Hopkins
ABSENT: Fleming, Potter
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS
(11:13 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 02:12:55)
Chair Barnacle mentioned that the September Board of Directors meeting has been cancelled and shared that Petaluma updated their mobile home park ordinance and encouraged others to reach out and look at it. Director Lemus shared that the Cotati Accordion Festival will take place August 16 and 17 and provided information regarding the Fog Belt Classic golf tournament. Director Hopkins announced the Gravenstein Apple Fair will be held this upcoming weekend from 10am to 6pm. Director Farrar-Rivas announced that they were able to preserve 18 units of affordable housing and were able to grant Burbank Housing with $250,000. Director Albin-Smith announced that on October 4, 2025, there will be an Oktoberfest at the CV Star Swim Center area.
Vice Chair Elward announced the Farmer’s Market on Friday will be celebrating Hispanic Heritage and the Rohnert Park Car Show will be in September. Chair Barnacle shared Circus Vargas will be in Petaluma from August 14th through the 25th as well as the Big Bounce is currently open at the Petaluma Fairgrounds.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA
(11:18 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 02:17:55)
Public Comment: Deb Emerson shared that Sonoma Clean Power’s art exhibit is up and running. Kate Kelly shared that the Redwood Empire Foodbank collected over 16,000 pounds of canned food donations this year at the county fair which is a 16% increase over what was collected the previous year. Sonoma Clean Power will be doing a matching program for them financially.
CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
(11:22 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 02:20:46)
13.Conference With Legal Counsel—Existing Litigation (Paragraph (1) of Subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9) Name of case: CPUC OIR to Update and Reform Energy Resource Recovery Account and Power Charge Indifference Adjustment Policies and Processes, R. 25-02-005
Josh Nelson, Special Counsel, stated that there would be no anticipated reportable action for this item.
ADJOURN
(11:22 a.m. - Video Time Stamp: 02:21:24)
Respectfully Submitted,
Karen Flores
Clerk of the Board