Pinole City Council
May 7, 2024

Term Definition
Senate Bill (SB) 32 The California Senate bill that was codified in 2016 and requires there be a reduction in GHG emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.

Senate Bill (SB) 1383 California’s Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, which sets statewide targets to reduce compostable materials in landfills by 75 percent by 2025, and to rescue at least 20 percent of edible food currently disposed for human consumption by 2025.

Sequestration The storage of carbon in plants or materials so that it cannot enter the atmosphere and cause additional warming.

Social Equity All people having equal access to and influence on the resources and benefits of society.

Supportive Measure or
Action
One which has not been quantified and does not provide a direct or easily quantified GHG reduction; however, these measures are expected to contribute to overall GHG reductions and/or provide co - benefits.

Transportation Demand
Management (TDM)
Transportation Demand Management focuses on how people make their transportation decisions, and facilitates greater usage of infrastructure for transit, ridesharing, walking, biking, and telework.

Vehicle Miles Traveled
(VMT)
VMT is the amount of total miles traveled by motor vehicle that are generated over a population over a given timeframe (e.g., one year)
Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zone (VHFHSZ)
Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps are developed using a science-based and field-tested model that assigns hazard score based on factors that influences a fire’s behavior and likelihood. VHFHSZ is the highest level of severity for Fire Hazard Severity Zones, according to the State Fire Marshall.

Weather The state of the atmosphere over a short period of time (usually an hour or day), describing if it is hot or cold, wet or dry, calm or stormy, clear or cloudy, etc.

Zero-Emissions-Vehicle
(ZEV)
A vehicle that never emits exhaust gas from the onboard source of power.

Zero Waste The conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of materials and packaging, without burning, and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten human health.

Acronyms and Abbreviations
Acronym/Abbreviation Term
AB Assembly Bill
BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District
BART Bay Area Rapid Transit
BAU Business-as-usual
BayREN Bay Area Regional Energy Network
BCDC Bay Conservation and Development Commission
C&D Construction & Demolition
CAAP Climate Action and Adaptation Plan
CAPDash Climate Action Planning Dashboard
CARB California Air Resources Board
CARE California Alternate Rates for Energy
CBSC California Building Standards Commission
CEC California Energy Commission
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CH4 Methane
CBO Community Based Organization
CORE Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project CO2 Carbon dioxide
CO2e Carbon dioxide equivalent
DOE Department of Energy
EBMUD East Bay Municipal Utility District
EPLAN Community Outreach and Engagement Plan
EV Electric Vehicle
ESCO Energy Service Companies
ESPC Energy Savings Performance Contracting
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FERA Family Electric Rate Assistance
FOPCW Friends of Pinole Creek Watershed

Acronym/Abbreviation Term
GHG Greenhouse Gas
GWP Global Warming Potential
HMP Hazard Mitigation Plan
HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability
IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
kWh Kilowatt hour
LHMP Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
MCE Marin Clean Energy
MERV Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission
MT Metric Tons
MT CO2e Metric tons carbon dioxide equivalent
NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
N2O Nitrous Oxide
PCTV Pinole Community Television
PG&E Pacific Gas & Electric
PV Photovoltaic
RCP Representative Concentration Pathway
RHNA Regional Housing Needs Allocation
RPS Renewable Portfolio Standard
SB Senate Bill
T&D Transmission and Distribution
TDM Transportation Demand Management
USGBC U.S. Green Building Council
VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled
VHFHSZ Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone
WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant
WestCAT Western Contra Costa Transit
ZEV Zero-Emissions-Vehicle

Chapter 1. Introduction
1 Chapter 2. Emissions
and Targets 11
Chapter 3. Climate Action
Measures 19
Chapter 4. Adaptation 101
Chapter 5. Implementation 125
Appendices
Appendix A: Inventory, Forecast, and Targets
Appendix B: Regulatory Background
Appendix C:
1 Measure Substantial Evidence
Appendix D:
1 CEQA Documentation
Appendix E:
1 CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds
and Guidance

1. Appendices C, D, and E are forthcoming.

T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s

I n t r o d u c t i o n
“Pinole the little City that could; can
be a guiding light for the region.”
– Pinole Community Member

Overview of Pinole
The City of Pinole is in the San Francisco Bay
Area, on the shores of San Pablo Bay in West
Contra Costa County. Interstate-80 (I-80), which
traverses the City, connects the San
Francisco/Oakland metropolitan area with
Sacramento and beyond. The City of Pinole has
a land area of more than four square miles;
much of the land has gently rolling hills with
steeper hills paralleling the north and south. The
elevation in the City ranges from sea level2to
500 feet above sea level. Pinole’s existing land
use pattern is generally a mix of residential
neighborhoods and commercial and business
centers combined with parks and open spaces.3
Our community is diverse, with approximately
26 percent of the population identifying as
Hispanic or Latino, over 24 percent identifying
as Asian, and nearly 12 percent identifying as
Black or African American. Additionally,
approximately 37 percent of the population
identified as White, which is significantly less
than the County (approximately 63 percent) and
San Francisco (approximately 42 percent).4 In
Pinole, the average commute time is higher than
the national average of 26.8 minutes and
approximately 8 percent of the City’s workforce
have “super commutes,” which are more than
90 minutes (see Figure 1). For City staff, the
average commute time is anticipated to be
similar, with an average one-way trip of 21.1
miles, based on an employee commute survey
that was completed as part of the GHG
emissions inventory (Appendix A). Energy
(natural gas and electricity) is provided by Pacific
Gas & Electric (PG&E); water is provided to the
City by East Bay Municipal Utilities District; and
wastewater is treated by the Pinole-Hercules
Treatment Plant and the West County
Wastewater Treatment Plant. Waste in the City
is managed by Republic Services, which picks up
landfill waste, recyclables, and organic waste at
residences and businesses throughout the
community.

2. https://www.ci.pinole.ca.us/residents/visit_pinole

3. https://cdnsm5-
hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10946972/File/Ci ty%20Government/Planning/General%20Plan/City_of_Pinole_G eneral_Plan_12.2010-Chapter1.pdf
2 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

4. https://www.ci.pinole.ca.us/residents/visit_pinole
https://cdnsm5-
hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10946972/File/Ci ty%20Government/Planning/General%20Plan/City_of_Pinole_G eneral_Plan_12.2010-Chapter1.pdf
San Pablo Avenue, Pinole

Figure 1 Pinole Employment and Commuter Statistics
3 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Purpose of the CAAP
The primary purpose of the City of Pinole's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) is to chart a clear path to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and become more resilient to our changing climate. The City recognizes the need for comprehensive, fiscally responsible solutions while employing actionable, measurable, and time-bound metrics to gauge its success. The CAAP is founded on a thorough analysis of communitywide systems, including an updated GHG emissions inventory (2017) and social vulnerability assessment, and builds upon the City's existing sustainability efforts (discussed below under Legislative History and Past Climate Action in Pinole and summarized in Figure 5) to establish a series of measures and actions that guide the City towards long-term GHG emissions reduction and resilience goals. The results of the updated GHG emissions inventory are included in Chapter 2 and the climate vulnerabilities are discussed in Chapter 4, with more technical details on the emissions quantification provided in Appendix A.

This CAAP is Pinole’s roadmap to achieving the
City’s goal of 40 percent below 1990 levels by
2030 and demonstrates substantial progress
towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.

The CAAP also includes a framework for
implementation and monitoring emission
reduction activities, and further promotes
adaptation and resilience of the community.

The plan is intended to be a qualified climate
action plan and meets the requirements of
the CEQA Section 15183.5(b).

CAAP Vision
Climate change and its associated impacts are
real and are already being felt locally.

Projections indicate that these effects will only
intensify in the current century unless there is
a global effort to bring about significant
change and reduce GHG emissions collectively
(see Chapter 4 for a summary of future
climate impacts in the City). Therefore, this
CAAP seeks to promote policies and practices
that safeguard the environment, enhance the
quality of life for residents in Pinole, include
equity in decision-making processes,
strengthen the local economy, and continue to
reduce the City’s emissions in line with
California’s goals while improving our ability to
adapt to the changing climate. To achieve
these goals, the plan provides a set of
measures for Pinole to mitigate emissions and
adapt to climate change risks, establish a
more resilient community, and lead the way
toward a more sustainable future. The key
components of a sustainable future include:
▪ Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Fostering renewable energy sources,
implementing innovative green
technologies, sustainable urban planning,
and thoughtful, realistic alignment with
the state’s goals to reach carbon
neutrality by 2045.
▪ Adapting to Climate Change: Developing
resilient infrastructure, implementing
effective resource conservation and
management strategies, enhancing early
warning systems, and prioritizing the
conservation and restoration of
ecosystems to bolster natural climate
resilience.
▪ Social Equity: Protecting the most
vulnerable from the impacts of climate
change, including small and/or minorityowned businesses and disadvantaged communities that are most affected by a
combination of economic, health, and
environmental burdens, to create a
healthier and more resilient City.
▪ Economic Resilience: Enhancing the
City's ability to withstand unpredictable
climate emergencies, supporting reliable
and affordable utilities, creating clean
energy jobs, and promoting resource
conservation.
▪ High-Quality of Life: Improving the
overall quality of life for all community
members by fostering a shared and
collaborative civic identity that prioritizes
sustainability, safety, security, and
diversity.
▪ Community Involvement: Encouraging all
Pinole residents, business owners, and
interested parties to actively participate
in the climate planning process, providing
an opportunity for those interested and
invested to influence decision-making in
the City. The collective goal is to engage
in activities that minimize potential
environmental, social, and economic
impacts of climate change.
▪ Collaborative Partnerships: Collaborating
with interested parties who can support
others in the community in making
science-guided decisions aimed at
reducing emissions while creating a more
sustainable, resilient, and equitable
community.
4 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

CAAP Development Process
The CAAP was thoughtfully crafted through
inclusive partnerships that involved
collaboration with the community members,
interested parties, utility providers, and
others, led by the City of Pinole. A diagram of
the CAAP development process is shown in
Figure 2. On October 19th, 2021, the City
Council adopted a resolution that declared a
Climate Emergency. This resolution
5 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) acknowledges the disastrous effects that
climate change threatens to have on the City’s
public health, economy, infrastructure, and
overall well-being. The CAAP is designed to
reduce these effects and prepare the
community for flooding, sea level rise, water
scarcity, extreme heat events, and wildfires.

As part of the CAAP development process the
City completed a Community Outreach and
Engagement Plan (EPLAN) to guide the
community engagement process to garner
significant feedback from the City’s diverse
communities in the development of the plan.

As part of the EPLAN, community outreach
materials were provided in English as well as
Spanish, Tagalog, and traditional Chinese,
upon request, to provide easy access to
residents and community groups.

Inclusive Engagement
The CAAP development process began as the
world emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic,
which amplified our need to act now on
climate action, recognizing the interconnected
challenges posed by both crises. The
pandemic also illuminated how disasters
disproportionately affect disadvantaged and
vulnerable communities.5 On the other hand,
the global response to the pandemic
demonstrated how it’s possible to work
together to solve the problems that impact us
all. We believe that it is critical that we
collectively build a resilient future that we are
proud of with cleaner air, weatherized homes
and businesses, safer public spaces, secure
jobs, and reliable, consistent access to
resources. Therefore, inclusive engagement
was instrumental in the development of this
CAAP so that the voices of the community are
reflected in our long-range plan.

Figure 2 CAAP Development Process

5. According to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), disadvantaged communities “are areas which suffer
disproportionately from a combination of economic, health, and environmental burdens (e.g., poverty, high unemployment, air and water pollution, presence of hazardous wastes, as well as higher rates of asthma and heart disease).” https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industriesand-topics/electrical-energy/infrastructure/disadvantagedcommunities#:~:text=Disadvantaged%20communities%20refers%20to %20the,of%20asthma%20and%20heart%20disease.

To launch the inclusive engagement process
that informed the development of the CAAP,
two surveys were released on the City’s website
(full and mini versions to accommodate people’s
availability). Survey responses were provided by
residents, employees, business owners,
landlords, landowners, Civic Leaders, residents
who live in Contra Costa County, and employees
who work in Contra Costa County. Key survey
results are summarized in Figure 3.

In tandem, the City hosted an Open House
event where the main hall of the Senior Center
was transformed into a climate action think
tank. These activities launched a year-long
outreach campaign that included participation
in community events (e.g., Community Pop-up
6 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) at the City’s Coastal Cleanup event),
development and maintenance of a CAAP
webpage, development and coordination of
outreach materials, and release of the City of
Pinole Strategy Prioritization game. During the
first Open House event and survey, information
was collected on the community’s top priorities
related to climate action, the associated cobenefits, and the vision for a more sustainable and resilient City. During the CAAP development
process, we straddled the digital divide by
providing both in-person and virtual options at
various times, days of the week, and locations
throughout the City, including events that
invited families to participate with inclusive
activities for youth to participate. Additionally,
public agencies from
Figure 3 Summarized Survey Results

Event Purpose Location
Coastal Clean-up Day 2022 Introduce Plan/ Register CAAP subscribers Bayfront Park Dumpster Day 2022 Introduce Plan/ Register CAAP subscribers Pinole Valley Park National Night Out 2022 Introduce Plan/ Register CAAP subscribers Fernandez Park Survey Receive preliminary feedback on areas of
interest and potential hurdles for climate
initiatives
Online
Community Open House Introduce Plan Senior Center
Farmer’s Market Gather public feedback to inform draft measures Community Corner Earth Team presentation Introduce CAAP and its purpose to Earth Team Pinole Valley High School Stakeholder Interviews Gathering feedback to inform the Plan from Civic, Business, and Community Focus Groups
Virtual
Earth Walk Register subscribers and publicize workshop Fernandez Park Crockett’s Shoreline Festival Register subscribers and publicize workshop City of Crockett Pinole Car Show Register subscribers and publicize workshop Fernandez Park Dumpster Day 2023 Publicize workshop Pinole Valley Park Earth Team presentation Publicize workshop and CAAP information Pinole Valley High School Peet’s Patio Publicize workshop Peet’s Coffee
National Night Out 2023 Publicize workshop Fernandez Park Community Workshop Review and provide feedback on draft measure and actions
Senior Center
City Hall
Pinole Library
Strategy Prioritization game Review and provide feedback on draft measure and actions
Online
7 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Table 1 CAAP-Related Community Outreach and Engagement
different sectors were present to introduce the
community to the types of measures and
actions that may be seen in the CAAP.

Table 1 and Figure 4 detail the outreach events
and the locations in which they occurred. As
part of the CAAP campaign, a logo was
developed, as well as campaign materials that
were dispersed and used throughout the City.

Postcards were mailed to every household in
Pinole, and we hosted the City’s first Earth
Month that was planned around the CAAP
sectors.

In addition to the community engagement that
took place throughout the CAAP development
process, the City also met internally multiple
times with staff from each department (e.g.,
City Manager’s Office, Community
Development, Community Services, Public
Works, and Police Department) to identify any
additional opportunities, establish the timeline
and lead departments for implementation, and
confirm that all initiatives were realistic and
implementable in the long-term. Additionally,
Pinole hosted the County's Sustainability
Coordinator to talk specifically about the CAAP
from a City staff perspective.

Figure 4 CAAP Community Engagement Map
8 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pinole Carbon Prioritization Game
Community Members Playing the
CAAP Carbon Prioritization Game
“This is a great initiative,
and I really appreciate the
opportunity [it] provides
for our town.”
– Pinole Community
Member

9 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pinole CAAP Open House
Upcycled Arts and Crafts
CAAP Visioning Board
Ongoing Feedback Collection
Opportunity at City Hall
“I think citizen involvement in the
CAAP process is a good opportunity
both for critical information
gathering but also involving
residents and businesses in climate
action and solutions.”
– Pinole Community Member
Community Pop-up Events

Legislative History and
Past Climate Action in
Pinole
California has established ambitious
legislation and policies that aim to
reduce and ultimately eliminate
GHG emissions. The primary GHG
legislation that has been adopted
are Assembly Bill (AB) 32, Senate
Bill (SB) 32, and AB 1279. To meet
the state’s 2045 goal of carbon
neutrality, the California Air
Resources Board (CARB)
recommends that local agencies
establish long-term targets that
align with AB 1279. Specifically,
CARB guidance calls for jurisdictions
to first strive to exceed the SB 32
goals of reducing GHG emissions 40
percent below 1990 levels, while
establishing a policy framework to
work towards the long-term target
of carbon neutrality by 2045.

Carbon neutrality refers to emitting
net zero carbon emissions, which
can be achieved by either
eliminating all GHG emissions, or
balancing carbon emissions with
carbon removal and sequestration.

See Figure 5 as well as Appendix B
for more information on the most
influential California legislation
related to climate change. Figure 5
provides a summary of the major
state legislation as well as the City’s
complimentary or supplemental
initiatives, plans, and policies. It is
anticipated that the City will adopt
the additional following plans in
2024 that are relevant: Active
Transportation Plan, Health &
Environmental Justice Element, and
Updated Safety Element, and Parks
Master Plan.
10 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Figure 5 Regulatory Timeline

E m i s s i o n s a n d
T a r g e t s
“So happy the City is aware and
acting on climate change!”
– Pinole Community Member

Climate Change
Background
Climate change is caused by the addition of
excess GHGs in the atmosphere, trapping heat
near the Earth’s surface. This raises the global
average temperatures through what is
referred to as the greenhouse effect. The
increase in average temperatures across the
globe affects sea level rise, precipitation
patterns, the severity of wildfires, the
prevalence of extreme heat events, water
supply, and ocean temperatures and
chemistry.6 According to the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC), GHGs are now higher than they have
been in the past 400,000 years, raising carbon
dioxide levels from 280 parts per million to
410 parts per million in the last 150 years.7
The dramatic increase in GHGs is attributed to
human activities, beginning with the industrial
revolution in the 1800s.8 As such,
anthropogenic (human) caused climate
change is well-understood, prompting local,
state, federal, and global governments and
communities to reduce and mitigate the
impacts of increasing GHG emissions.9 Today,
the need for urgent and ambitious action has
been further reinforced by recent findings
from the European Union’s Copernicus
Climate Change Service. The study found the
year 2023 was the hottest on record, with the
global average temperature being more than

1.4 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

This increase is marginally under the 1.5-
degree threshold in the Paris Agreement, and
beyond what scientists say humans and
ecosystems will struggle to adapt to.10
12 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

6. https://climate.nasa.gov/extreme-weather/

7. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_ WGI_SPM_final.pdf

8. https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/chapter/spm/

9. https://climate.nasa.gov/climate_resources/24/graphic-therelentless-rise-of-carbon-dioxide/

10. https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/06/climate/2023-hottest-yearclimate/index.html#:~:text=The%20analysis%20from%20the%20Euro pean,and%20ecosystems%20will%20struggle%20to
Inventory Overview
A GHG emissions inventory quantifies and
categorizes the various carbon emission
sources to guide the development of a CAAP.

The City of Pinole updated the 2017 GHG
emissions inventory from community-wide
activities within the City (Community GHG
Inventory) and completed a 2021 GHG
emissions inventory for municipal buildings
and operations (Municipal GHG Inventory).

The Community GHG Inventory estimates
GHG emissions from residents and businesses
within the City, including GHG emissions from
municipal buildings and operations. It is
important to note the Community GHG
Inventory includes municipal GHG emissions
as a subset within the inventory, while the
Municipal GHG Inventory presents only the
municipal GHG emissions. To allow for
comparison among GHG emissions sources, all
emissions are converted to the equivalent of
one metric ton of carbon dioxide, or MT CO2e.
1 MT CO2e is the equivalent of using
113 gallons of gasoline or driving
2,564 milesin a standard
combustion vehicle.

Source: https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhousegas-equivalencies-calculator Pinole’s GHG Emissions
Inventories
2017 Community Inventory
The Community GHG Inventory was originally
completed by East Bay Energy Watch in June
2020 according to the International Council
for Local Environmental Initiatives’ (ICLEI) U.S.

Community Protocol for Accounting and
Reporting Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Version

1.2. The Community GHG Inventory was
updated in 2023 with the most recent
available data sources, emission factors, and
Global Warming Potentials (GWP) from IPCC

Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) and focuses on
sources within each sector that are under the
jurisdictional control of the City. In 2017, the
Pinole community (including municipal
operations) emitted approximately 72,273 MT
CO2e.

The 2017 Community GHG inventory is
organized by four primary sectors as shown in
Table 2 and Figure 6. The transportation sector
was the largest source of GHG emissions,
generating approximately 35,718 MT CO2e, or
49 percent of the total 2017 community
emissions. The transportation sector includes
passenger and commercial vehicles, public
transit, and offroad vehicles. The energy
sector, including electricity and natural gas
used within residential and nonresidential
buildings, was the second largest source of
13 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) GHG emissions, generating approximately
33,088 MT CO2e, or 46 percent of the total
2017 community GHG emissions.

Nonresidential electricity and natural gas in
this sector include commercial electricity and
natural gas as well as direct access electricity.11
The waste sector, including the processing and
decomposition of waste at landfills in various
locations, resulted in 3,300 MT CO2e or five
percent of the City’s GHG emissions while the
conveyance, delivery, and treatment of water
(63 MT CO2e) and treatment of wastewater
(103 MT CO2e) resulted in the remaining GHG
emissions. Other sectors were excluded from
this inventory because they are not under the
jurisdictional control of the City.

Sector and Subsector GHG Emissions (MT CO2e) Percent of Emissions (%) Energy 33,088 46%
Residential Electricity 3,738 5%
Nonresidential Electricity 5,918 8%
Residential Natural Gas 18,140 25%
Nonresidential Natural Gas 5,291 7%
Transportation 35,718 49%
Passenger Vehicles 18,913 26%
Commercial Vehicles 10,868 15%
Public Transit (buses and BART) 701 1%
Off-road Equipment 5,236 7%
Waste 3,300 5%
Water and Wastewater 166 <1%
Water 63 <1%
Wastewater 103 <1%
Total Emissions 72,273 100%
Note: Values may not add up due to rounding.

Table 2 City of Pinole Community GHG Emissions (2017)

11. Direct access electricity includes customers who purchase electricity from a competitive provider or non-utility entity. While direct access electricity may include electricity purchased from industrial customers, nonresidential energy excludes industrial sources because no industrial electricity or natural gas consumption was reported by the utility (Pacific Gas & Electric) in 2017.

Figure 6 City of Pinole Community GHG Emissions (2017)
14 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) 2021 Municipal Inventory
The Municipal GHG Inventory was prepared
with the best available data sources, emission
factors, and IPCC AR5 GWP’s, and was
calculated based on ICLEI’s Local Government
Operations Protocol, Version 1.1. In 2021,
Pinole’s GHG emissions associated with
municipal operations totaled 2,205 MT CO2e.

The 2021 Municipal GHG Inventory is also
organized by four primary sectors as shown in
Table 3 and Figure 7. These GHG emissions are
generated by the regular activities associated
with running the municipality and can be
directly influenced by the City. The
transportation sector, including GHG
emissions from the vehicle fleet, employee
commute, and business travel, was the largest
source of GHG emissions, generating
approximately 1,136 MT CO2e, or 52 percent
of total 2021 municipal GHG emissions. The
energy sector, including GHG emissions from
the City’s electricity and natural gas use, was
the second largest source of emissions,
generating approximately 491 MT CO2e, or 22
percent of total 2021 GHG emissions. The
solid waste sector generated 356 MT CO2e
representing 16 percent of total 2021
emissions while the remaining ten percent of
municipal GHG emissions were generated
from water use and wastewater generation
(223 MT CO2e) by the City’s operations. Other
sectors were excluded from this inventory
because they are not under the jurisdictional
control of the City.

Appendix A provides further details on the
Community GHG Inventory update and
Municipal GHG Inventory preparation.

Additionally, the Community GHG Inventory
and Municipal GHG Inventory results can be
viewed on the City’s CAAP Dashboard.12 This
dashboard will be regularly updated with new
inventories to track changes in
communitywide and municipal GHG emissions
over time.

12. The CAAP Dashboard can be accessed at:
https://cap.rinconconsultants.com/Pinole

Sector and Subsector GHG Emissions (MT CO2e) Percent of Emissions (%) Energy 491 22%
Buildings and Facilities 488 22%
Streetlights and Traffic Signals 3
<1%
Transportation 1,136 52%
Vehicle Fleet 347 16%
Employee Commute 298 14%
Business Travel 491 22%
Waste 356 16%
Water and Wastewater 223 10%
Water Consumption 1
<1%
Wastewater Emissions 221 10%
Total Emissions 2,205 100%
Figure 7 City of Pinole Municipal GHG Emissions (2021)
Table 3 City of Pinole Municipal GHG Emissions (2021)
15 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Pinole’s GHG Emissions Forecast
GHG emissions forecasts, demonstrating how the City’s GHG emissions are expected to change in the future, have been generated based on the 2017 Community GHG Inventory. The future emissions are projected based on the continuation of current activities, projected population, and job growth over time to help identify actions that must be taken now to meet future targets. GHG emissions are forecasted through the years 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045 according to two scenarios: a business-as-usual scenario and an adjusted scenario.

Business-as-Usual Forecast
The business-as-usual scenario provides a forecast of how future GHG emissions would change if current activities continued as they did in 2017 and growth were to occur without local policies and actions to reduce GHG emissions. The forecast is based on growth trends projected in the City’s population, employment, and housing according to the Association of Bay Area Governments’ Plan Bay Area 2050 which accounts for the number of new homes needed in the Bay Area as part of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). Table 4 shows the demographic projections used for the forecast. While most sectors are forecasted using the demographic metrics, on-road and off-road transportation were forecasted using growth projections from CARB’s on-road and off-road transportation emission inventory modeling tools (EMFAC2021 and OFFROAD2021). As shown in Table 5, the City’s business-as-usual GHG emissions are projected to increase to 79,501 MT CO2e in 2025, 84,515 MT CO2e in 2030, 88,764 MT CO2e in 2035, 93,183 MT CO2e in 2040, and 97,772 MT CO2e in 2045. For additional information on the business-as-usual forecast as well as the demographic metric calculations, see Appendix A.
16 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Demographic 2017 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
Population 19,663 21,718 23,110 24,592 26,168 27,845
Employment 7,970 8,963 9,645 10,379 11,168 12,018
Household 6,901 7,431 7,783 8,151 8,536 8,940
Notes: Demographic metrics were calculated using Pinole-specific values from Plan Bay Area 2040 for 2015 and applying local and regional growth expected between 2015-2050 from Plan Bay Area 2050.

Table 4 Business-as-Usual Forecast Demographic Metrics by Year Adjusted Forecast
Several state regulations have been adopted that will reduce future local GHG emissions. These regulations have been incorporated into an adjusted forecast to account for future GHG emissions reductions resulting from state efforts and investments. Key state legislation included in the adjusted forecast include:
▪ Renewable Portfolio Standard (Senate Bill 100 and Senate Bill 1020) which requires investorowned utilities, publicly owned utilities, electric service providers, and community choice aggregators to increase procurement from eligible renewable energy resources to 50 percent of total procurement by 2026, 60 percent by 2030, 90 percent by 2035, 95 percent by 2040, and 100 percent by 2045. The increase in renewable energy resources reduces the GHG-intensity of electricity.

▪ Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title
24, Part 6 of the California Code of
Regulations)13 which sets standards for
energy-efficient technologies and methods
in new buildings to reduce electricity and
natural gas consumption in new buildings
and increase the use of renewable
electricity.
▪ Transportation legislation including the
Advanced Clean Cars Program (introduced
by CARB in 2012),14 Advanced Clean Truck
regulation, and Innovative Clean Transit
regulation which work together to increase
the fuel efficiency of fossil-fuel powered onroad vehicles and increase the share of zero-emission vehicles on the road.

In addition to the reductions from state
legislation, the adjusted forecast also includes
emission reductions associated with the City’s
17 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Community GHG Emissions (MT CO2e) 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 Business-as-Usual 79,501 84,515 88,764 93,183 97,772
Reductions from State Legislation and MCE 9,943 15,613 21,361 24,921 27,871 Adjusted Forecast 69,558 68,902 67,403 68,262 69,901
Table 5 Forecasted Community GHG Emissions

13. The 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards were
incorporated into the adjusted scenario. The 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards were not incorporated due to lack of data made available by the State.

14. The latest Advanced Clean Cars II regulations expanded the Advanced Clean Cars Program but were not incorporated into the adjusted forecast because the state has not yet updated emissions models with the regulation’s impacts.
transition from Pacific Gas and Electricprovided electricity to the lower-emissions electricity options provided by Marin Clean
Energy (MCE) which occurred after the
inventory year in April 2018. The resulting
adjusted forecast provides the level of GHG
emissions reductions the City will be
responsible for after state regulations and
existing local actions (i.e., the switch to MCE)
have been implemented (and before any
additional contribution from local policies or
actions). As shown in Table 5, the City’s
adjusted business-as-usual emissions are
projected to increase to 69,558 MT CO2e in
2025, 68,902 MT CO2e in 2030, 67,403 MT
CO2e in 2035, 68,262 MT CO2e in 2040, and
69,901 MT CO2e in 2045.Appendix A provides
further details on the specific state regulations
incorporated into the adjusted forecast and
quantified legislative reductions to the
business-as-usual forecast.

Pinole’s GHG Emissions
Targets
Emission targets are quantitative goals that
will further the City’s ability to measure
emission reduction progress from the baseline
scenarios and help guide implementation. The
GHG targets were aligned with the state’s GHG
reduction goals for the years 2030 and 2045.

The state’s goals are developed relative to the
state’s 1990 GHG emission baseline. As
mentioned above, SB 32 establishes a goal to
reduce statewide GHG by 40 percent below
1990 levels by 2030, and AB 1249 establishes
the state’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality
by 2045. The City’s GHG targets were
developed relative to the 2017 Community
GHG emissions by back-casting to 1990. This
back-cast utilized the change in statewide GHG
emissions between 2017 and 1990 as a proxy
for change in Pinole during the same period.15

15. The City of Pinole’s 1990 GHG emissions were estimated to be 78,982 MT CO2e based on a nine percent increase in state GHG emissions seen between 2017 and 1990. These
calculations are consistent with guidance from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research’s General Plan Guidelines. https://opr.ca.gov/docs/OPR_C8_final.pdf

18 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Emissions Forecast or Pathway 1990 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 Mass Emissions Target Pathway
Adjusted Forecast (MT CO2e) 78,982 69,558 68,902 67,403 68,262 69,901 SB 32 Mass Emissions Target Pathway (MT CO2e)1 78,982 56,960 47,389 31,593 15,796 0 Remaining Emissions Gap (MT CO2e) N/A 12,598 21,512 35,810 52,466 69,901 Table 6 Community GHG Emission Reduction Targets and Gap Analysis The estimated 1990 GHG emissions were then reduced by 40 percent to establish a 2030 target for the City and reduced to zero to establish a 2045 target for the City. The targets, established as follows, remain consistent with the State’s 2030 and 2045 goals:
▪ Reduce GHG emissions to 47,389 MT CO2e by 2030 (the SB 32 target year) ▪ Reduce GHG emissions to 0 MT CO2e by 2045 (the AB 1249 target year) After accounting for reductions that will result from state regulations, as shown in Table 6 and Figure 8, there remains a gap between Pinole’s adjusted forecast and Pinole’s targets. To meet the City’s targets and align with state goals, Pinole will need to reduce communitywide GHG emissions by 21,512 MT CO2e by 2030 and 69,901 MT CO2e by 2045. These reductions will be achieved through implementation of measures and actions developed specifically for Pinole based on community engagement, best practices of similar and neighboring jurisdictions, and those recommended by state organizations and agencies. The emissions reduction measures and actions are presented in Chapter 3 and are quantified to identify their overall contribution to meeting the City’s 2030 and 2045 GHG reduction targets. See Appendix A for more information on the forecast and targets.

Figure 8 City of Pinole Emissions Forecast

C l i m a t e A c t i o n
M e a s u r e s
“We are working to convert our
home to high energy efficiency. We
have solar, HVAC and a heat pump
hot water heater, all resulting in
savings and less dependance on
natural gas.”
– Pinole Community Member

Climate Action and
Adaptation Measures
The City of Pinole recognizes that achieving
long-term sustainable change is essential to
ensure that the community contributes its fair
share towards reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. This will help the state limit the
impacts of climate change and enable the
community to adapt to the local effects of
climate change. To establish sustainable
change, the community’s efforts must be
reasonable, resilient, and equity-driven. The
City will lead by example and spearhead the
community’s climate efforts to implement the
adopted climate action and adaptation
measures outlined in this plan and maintain
progress with regular monitoring and
accountability.

The climate action and adaptation measures
included in this CAAP are structured stepwise
to provide a comprehensive path for
implementation. As detailed in Figure 9, each
20 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) climate action and adaptation measure are
positioned under a guiding strategy and contain
a set of supporting actions for implementation.

The measures were developed to both reduce
GHG emissions and adapt to climate change
impacts. Specifically, the plan’s mitigation
measures detail achievable and implementable
GHG emissions reduction policies designed to
achieve the City’s GHG emissions reduction
targets for 2030 (40 percent below 1990 levels)
and provide substantial progress towards
meeting the longer-term target of carbon
neutrality by 2045. The plan’s adaptation
measures, which are discussed further in
Chapter 4, are designed to increase Pinole’s
adaptive capacity and resilience to climate
change impacts. Over time, the Plan will be
reviewed, and additional actions will need to
be added to make greater progress on the
established measures, as appropriate. This
CAAP serves as the City’s first step in climate
action planning and will continue to be refined.

Figure 9 Climate Strategy Structure
Climate Policy Pillars
Reasonable, resilient, and equitable climate action and adaptation planning is built on key pillars that are essential for effective implementation. Pinole’s six Climate Policy Pillars are focused on structural change, education, equity, funding, partnerships, and feasibility. During the climate action and adaptation measure development process, each measure was viewed through the lens of these Climate Policy Pillars to develop an implementable plan. Each pillar is detailed in Figure 10.

21 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Cornerstone Measure
The Cornerstone Measure was designed to set
the direction of the CAAP by embodying the
spirit and character of Pinole and clearly
illustrating how each Climate Policy Pillar is
integrated into the measures. The rest of the
climate action and adaptation measures are
intended to align with the Cornerstone
Measure, providing the most effective means
for achieving the City’s climate action and
adaptation goals.

In construction, the cornerstone is often the
first stone set, and all other stones are set in
reference from that point, essentially
determining the direction or position of the
building. Similarly, the Cornerstone Goal (CR1) sets the direction of our CAAP and intends to connect the CAAP and energize our
Figure 10 Pinole’s Climate Policy Pillars
community around the opportunity to
leverage climate action and adaptation
implementation to make Pinole a center for
green economic development and high-road
jobs. From electrification retrofits and bicycle
lane buildouts to carbon sequestration
research and restoration projects, climate
action and adaptation initiatives in Pinole will
create new industries for the local economy
and foster job growth. A study by the
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Luskin Center for Innovation found that
100,000 full-time equivalent jobs would be
created across various sectors of the economy
as the result of electrifying all of California’s
new and existing buildings by 2045.16

16. https://innovation.luskin.ucla.edu/2019/11/13/move-toall-electric-buildings-will-trigger-significant-demand-for-skilledworkers/

Similarly, in the waste and materials sector,
the process of re-using materials was found to
create 200 times as many jobs as sending
those materials to landfills and incinerators.17
Centering these opportunities in Pinole will
help create a prosperous, green economy that
works to reduce GHG emissions in Pinole and
adapt the community to climate impacts. It
will also bring “high-road jobs” to Pinole
residents – jobs that will provide Pinole
residents family-sustaining wages,
comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for
continued career advancement.18
To leverage these economic opportunities for
Pinole’s economy and residents, the
Cornerstone Measure was designed in a
stepwise manner to employ each Climate
Policy Pillar as demonstrated in Figure 11.

With each Climate Policy Pillar, CR-1
22 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

17. https://worldgbc.org/article/waste-hierarchy-cbre/

18. https://www.usdn.org/uploads/cms/documents/workforce-guide_4.12.21_form.pdf will make transformational change and engage
the community. This will set the foundation
for the rest of the measures in the CAAP to
establish their own foundations to make
reasonable, resilient, and equitable change in
Pinole.

Mitigation Measures
Together, we developed a CAAP that includes
a thoughtful list of measures and actions that
collectively help us reach 2030 emissions
reduction goals and put us on track to
ultimately reach our longer-term goal of net
neutrality for 2045. In addition to the
mitigation measures, we have also prepared a
list of adaptation measures (see Chapter 4)
and measures that are specific to the City
operations, which are summarized under
municipal measures included below.

Figure 11 Cornerstone Measure Alignment with Pillars

These measures provide a pathway for the
City to lead by example by reducing emissions
and increase adaptive capacity at City-owned
and operated buildings to demonstrate that
the initiatives included throughout this plan
are feasible and achievable. In total, there are
21 mitigation measures related to building
energy (five measures), transportation (six
measures), solid waste (five measures), water
and wastewater (two measures), and carbon
sequestration (two measures), as well as the
cornerstone measure discussed above. The
Measures included under each mitigation and
adaptation strategy are intended to pull in the
same direction, providing the most effective
means for achieving the GHG reductions to
help the City achieve the 2030 target and
establish the framework for the deep
decarbonization needed to reach the 2045
target of carbon neutrality.

Measure Co-benefits
Climate action and adaptation measures were
refined based on community feedback and
input and designed to produce additional
benefits beyond GHG emissions reduction and
adaptation. These co-benefits were
collectively prioritized by the community to
align with their needs and preferences and
will have the potential for long-term positive
impacts throughout the community. The cobenefits identified for each measure include:
23 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Measure Summary and GHG
Emissions Reductions
Table 7 and 8 summarize the climate action
measures developed and adopted by this
CAAP. Table 7 also includes the GHG emission
reduction potential of each mitigation
measure. In total, the measures will reduce
21,585 MT CO2e by 2030 and 68,746 MT CO2e
by 2045. Assuming the state legislation and
the City’s initial transition to MCE in the
adjusted forecast reduce GHG emissions by
15,613 MT CO2e by 2030, Pinole is on target
to achieve the 2030 GHG reduction target and
California’s Senate Bill 32 goal. Similarly,
assuming the state legislation of the adjusted
forecast will reduce emissions by 27,871 MT
CO2e by 2045, Pinole will remain slightly
above the net zero emissions target in 2045.

However, these remaining emissions can be
offset through established carbon
sequestration measures, which can further
assist Pinole to reach the community’s goal of
carbon neutrality. For further detail on the
substantial evidence and calculation methods
of the GHG emission reductions, refer to
Appendix C.

It is important to note that while all measures
benefit the community, they do not all result
in equal GHG emissions reductions and some
measures are considered “supportive,”
meaning that they do not directly result in
GHG emissions reductions, although they
support the overall goals of the CAAP. These
measures do not have emissions reductions
directly associated with implementing them,
however, they may collectively increase the
GHG emissions reduced.

Greater access to healthy food
Cleaner air and water
Improved public and active
transportation
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved disaster preparedness,
safety, and resilience
Improved economy/job creation

ID Measure Text Reductions
Strategy CR: Cornerstone to Climate Action and Adaptation Planning CR-1 Leverage the CAAP’s work around electrification, transportation infrastructure buildout, organic waste diversion, and carbon sequestration to establish Pinole as a center for green economic development and high-road jobs.
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Strategy FL: Building Energy
BE-1 Electrify 100% of new construction in the City in 2024. 2030: 1,509 2045: 5,962
BE-2 Electrify existing residential buildings to reduce natural gas consumption by 26% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
2030: 4,778
2045: 19,273
BE-3 Electrify existing commercial and mixed-use (i.e., combined commercial and residential) buildings to reduce natural gas consumption 18% by 2030 and 100% by 2045. 2030: 997
2045: 5,868
BE-4 Increase the number of accounts enrolled in MCE’s Deep Green option to 95% communitywide by 2030.
2030: 3,200
2045: 0
BE-5 Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy. 2030: N/A 2045: N/A
Strategy TR: Transportation
TR-1 Create a safe and connected active transportation network linked to Pinole Creek to increase active transportation mode share to 5.5% by 2030 and 11.5% by 2045. 2030: 107
2045: 256
TR-2 Implement public and shared transit improvements and programs to achieve a 13% public transit mode share by 2030 and 18% by 2045.
2030: 256
2045: 559
TR-3 Develop programs and policies to discourage driving single passenger vehicles and to support the active transportation and public transit mode share goals of Measures TR-1 and TR-2. 2030: N/A
2045: N/A
TR-4 Increase passenger zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) use and adoption to 33% by 2030 and 100% by 2045. 2030: 3,832 2045: 13,839
TR-5 Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) use and adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
2030: 2,303
2045: 8,186
TR-6 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 15% of off-road equipment operations by 2030 and 100% by 2045. 2030: 1,245 2045: 10,721
Strategy SW: Solid Waste
SW-1 By 2025, reduce landfilled organic waste by 75% and support food insecure residents by diverting 20% of currently disposed edible food to food recovery organizations to meet and or exceed SB 1383 requirements.
2030: 2,934
2045: 3,570
SW-2 Reduce landfilled inorganic waste 35% by 2030 and 90% by 2045. 2030: N/A 2045: N/A
SW-3 Meet CalGreen’s current 65% construction and demolition (C&D) materials diversion requirements on all covered projects.
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
SW-4 Analyze opportunities to enhance the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant to divert organic waste from the landfill and increase organics recovery.
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
SW-5 Establish new programs to meet the City’s SB 1383 annual procurement target (i.e., 1,073 tons of compost) by 2030.
2030: 425
2045: 513
Table 7 Mitigation Strategies and Measures
24 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Measure ID Measure Text
Strategy COP City Infrastructure and Operations
Measure CIO-1 Upgrade all City accounts to MCE’s Deep Green option by 2025 and electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal buildings and facilities by 2035.

Measure CIO-2 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 30% of the municipal vehicle fleet by 2028 and 100% by 2040.

Measure CIO-3 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal off-road equipment by 2035, where feasible.

Measure CIO-4 Reduce employee VMT 20% by 2035, from 2019 levels by developing and implementing a municipal Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan by 2028.

Measure CIO-5 Reduce municipal water consumption 15% by 2030, from 2019 levels.

Measure CIO-6 Reduce organic waste by 10% by 2025, from 2019 levels and landfill zero waste by 2035.

Measure CIO-7 Retrofit existing infrastructure owned and operated by the City, such as the Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant, located in the areas at risk of sea level rise.

Strategy CG: City Governance
Measure CG-1 Build staffing capacity to effectively implement the CAAP Mitigation Measures and update the CAAP triennially.

Measure CG-2 Establish reporting procedures to implement the CAAP measures and transparently communicate progress to the community.

Table 8 Municipal Mitigation Strategies and Measures
25 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Strategy W: Water and Wastewater
W-1 Reduce per capita potable water consumption 10% by 2030 and 25% by 2045, from 2017 levels. 2030: N/A 2045: N/A
W-2 Increase the community’s use, supply, and access to recycled water. 2030: N/A 2045: N/A
Strategy TR: Carbon Sequestration
CS-1 Increase carbon sequestration and prepare the urban forest for climate change, extreme heat, drought, and wildfire by adopting policies developed through the Community Urban Forest Plan. 2030: N/A
2045: N/A
CS-2 Increase nature-based and technological carbon sequestration opportunities in Pinole. 2030: N/A 2045: N/A

Cornerstone
CR-1 Leverage the CAAP’s work around electrification,
transportation infrastructure buildout, organic waste
diversion, and carbon sequestration to establish Pinole as a center for green economic development and highroad jobs. 26 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Cornerstone
Pinole has traditionally been a bedroom community, a place where people live, but do not necessarily work.19 We see Pinole as a place where people can live, work, and play, reducing commute times, protecting resources, and spending more time doing the things that bring us joy.

Employment in Pinole is changing and based on data from the United States Census Bureau, employment in Pinole declined by 1.43 percent between 2020 and 2021.20 However, this change is aggregated across all job sectors and does not represent the changes in specific fields. For example, Installation, Maintenance, and Repair; Life, Physical and Social Science; and Community and Social Service Occupations, which are traditionally tied to high-road jobs, have grown in Pinole between 5 and 26 percent in that same timeframe. We will leverage our thoughtful work around electrification, mobility, organic waste management, and carbon sequestration to establish Pinole as a center for green economic development and high-road jobs. Implementation of this measure will include creating a green workforce development program to connect residents to workforce development training courses for climate industries with high-road jobs (Action CR-1c). Additionally, the City will identify a place and create a plan to develop a zero-carbon district where all buildings and mobility options are carbon free (Action CR-1h). Collaborative, system-wide solutions will pave the way for realistic and meaningful transformations, addressing one of the most complex challenges of our time and fostering sustainable progress across diverse sectors.

CR-1 Leverage the CAAP’s work around electrification, transportation infrastructure buildout, organic waste diversion, and carbon sequestration to establish Pinole as a center for green economic development and high-road jobs.

Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Green and clean energy
businesses in Pinole (#)
▪ Certified Green Businesses
in Pinole (#)
Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
27 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CR-1a Coordinate with the City’s Economic Development
staff to review and update the Pinole Economic
Development Strategy every three years (2026/28,
2029/31, 2032/34, etc.) and adjust fees to
specifically attract green and clean energy
businesses to Pinole by reflecting changing
economic trends, evolving community needs, and
emerging opportunities. Include an annual review
of the fee schedules (including a survey of
competitor’s fees) to assess their impact on green
businesses.

19. https://cdnsm5-
hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10946972/File/City%20Government/Planning/General%20Plan/City_of_Pinole_General_Plan_12.201 0-Chapter1.pdf

20. https://datausa.io/profile/geo/pinole-ca?monthly-employment=latestEmploymentGrowthYoY

CR-1c In partnership with organizations such as the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County or Contra Costa College, create a green workforce development program to connect Pinole residents to workforce development training courses for climate industries with high-road jobs. Additionally, use the program to develop a network of local professional associations active in Pinole and to incorporate green workforce development training courses into the periodic “Pinole Workforce Development Consortium” meetings identified in the Economic Development Strategy. Focus this program on members of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable communities in the City and track enrollment and success rate by zip code to monitor the reach and distribution of the initiative.

CR-1d Partner with the Contra Costa County Green Business Program to help small- and medium-sized businesses in Pinole minimize their impact on the environment and increase the number of certified Green Businesses in Pinole.

CR-1e Create a Green Technology Incubator in partnership with the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County, Contra Costa College, the Renaissance Entrepreneur Center, the East Bay Economic Development Alliance, or similar partners, to help startups and companies working on innovative solutions for climate-related challenges to succeed in the market. The Green Technology Incubator would provide access to funding through identification and partnership opportunities for grants, technical assistance, networking support, and community exposure.

CR-1f Incentivize optimal use of properties with a water view by adoption of Municipal Code Amendments allowing for height exceptions for mixed use developments that include top-floor restaurants that are dense, transit rich and connected to Pinole's growing active transportation network.

CR-1g Based on the findings and recommendation of the broadband feasibility study (currently in progress), a subsidy or grant program may be developed to improve existing infrastructure of multi-family units (i.e., upgrade internal wiring etc.) to update policies to increase Pinole residents' work-from-home rate, including incorporating work-from-home strategies into the Transportation Demand Management standards of Action TR-3a. 28 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CR-1h Explore locations within the City to create a plan to develop a climate resilience district. The district would receive focused City resources, support, partnerships with local businesses, and engagement to develop resilient communities. Examples could include the Pinole Valley area to focus on funding projects related to wildfire risk, for example.

CR-1b Work with the City’s Economic Development staff to perform direct outreach to existing Pinole businesses to identify climate change impacts (e.g., climate hazards, increasing water and natural gas costs, etc.) that may affect the long-term viability and growth of existing core industries and small business. Include regional green and clean energy businesses in a “short list” of industries to focus these initial outreach and business retention efforts during Phase 1.

Building Energy
BE-1 Electrify 100% of new construction in the City in 2024.

BE-2 Electrify existing residential buildings to reduce natural gas consumption by 26% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

BE-3 Electrify existing commercial and mixed-use (i.e., combined commercial and residential) buildings to
reduce natural gas consumption 18% by 2030 and 100%
by 2045.

BE-4 Work with MCE to provide 100% carbon-free and
renewable energy to at least 95% of the community by
2030.

BE-5 Increase generation and storage of local communityscale renewable energy by exploring new advancements in the clean energy sector.
29 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Building Energy
Implementation of this measure would be achieved through adoption of a single margin source energy score or more stringent ordinance in 2024 to avoid new natural gas construction after calendar year 2024. All-electric buildings can be more energy efficient and require lower energy bills than those powered by natural gas.21 Constructing new all-electric buildings is more cost-effective up-front than building traditional mixed-fuel buildings due to the cost savings obtained from avoiding the installation and expansion of natural gas infrastructure.22 These long-term and up-front cost savings make all-electric new construction an easy choice for builders. All-electric buildings also provide a critical step towards improving public health because burning natural gas in poorly ventilated areas (i.e., through gas furnaces) can cause a drastic increase of harmful indoor pollutants that are linked to increased risk of respiratory illnesses. One study found that mean nitrogen dioxide concentrations were higher in homes with a gas stove (33.1 ppb) than in those without a gas stove (16.8 ppb),23 which relates to a 20% increase in symptoms of asthma in children under 12. In this study, indoor levels were also associated with the presence of a gas heater and the use of a space heater or oven for supplementary heating. Using electric appliances mitigates these indoor air pollutant risks. When coupled with Measures BE-4 and BE-5, reducing direct emissions from natural gas consumption in existing buildings will result in buildings that run more efficiently and cleaner in terms of their energy use.

BE-1 Electrify 100% of new construction in the City in 2024.

Adopt a single margin source energy score or
more stringent ordinance in 2024 to avoid new
natural gas construction.
30 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

21. https://www.nrdc.org/bio/pierre-delforge/new-study-confirms-benefits-electrifying-cabuildings#:~:text=Replacing%20natural%20gas%20with%20clean,according%20to%20a%20new%20analysis.

22. https://rmi.org/insight/the-economics-of-electrifying-buildings-residential-new-construction/

23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7665158/ BE-1a
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 1,509
2045: 5,962
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ All-electric new buildings
(% of total new buildings) Partner with organizations such as MCE, Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN), the Building
Decarbonization Coalition and the U.S. Green
Building Council (USGBC) to compile a suite of case
studies (e.g., document/guide on all-electric best
practices and examples applicable to Pinole or the
Bay Area) and cost-effective strategies (e.g.,
energy efficiency improvements) for electric
BE-1b

BE-1b buildings by prototype. Provide digital copies on the City’s website and hard copies at City Hall for residents and business owners to review and utilize.

BE-1c Partner with organizations such as MCE, BayREN, the Building Decarbonization Coalition, and USGBC to educate building owners, developers, and contractors on the cost savings, environmental benefits, and versatility associated with all-electric construction, as well as the advantages all-electric construction provide for United States Green Building Council LEED certification. Utilize the case studies and cost-effective strategies as well as existing resources such as those provided by MCE as educational materials and share the information on the City’s website, at City events (such as Dumpster Day and Earth Walk), and at the City’s permit counter.

BE-1d Partner with PG&E to conduct an electrification infrastructure and capacity feasibility study to identify expected increases in electricity demand due to building and vehicle electrification and identify infrastructure improvements (including local renewable energy and storage projects) to increase capacity to meet demand. During this process, work with MCE to provide projections on load changes due to electrification.

BE-1e Partner with MCE, the WFDBCCC and/or other organizations to host regular workforce development trainings for installers, local contractors, and building owners/operators. Trainings would provide financial resources and technical requirements, including information on new electric appliances and approaches to electrification. Partner with community-based organizations to connect members of vulnerable communities to these training programs in plain language and in a culturally appropriate manner.

BE-1f Advocate for regional policy and programs that allow for utility rates that are supportive of electrification (i.e., electricity rates lower than natural gas rates). 31 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Building Energy
Existing building electrification requires the replacement of fossil-fueled systems with electric alternatives and provides the same GHG emission reduction, energy bill, and public health benefits as new building electrification. However, barriers to this measure have been recognized such as the cost for homeowners and members of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities that make it difficult to prioritize electrification. These community members will also face the greatest impacts if left as the last customers relying on the gas distribution system because they can least afford the significant bill increases anticipated to support aging and stranded natural gas infrastructure.24 Therefore, implementation of this measure would include adoption of a reach code requiring all central air conditioning unit installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling with a single unit for residential buildings. In Pinole, equitable distribution will be established through a variety of actions, including Action BE-2c, which aims to complete a residential existing building electrification feasibility analysis to determine the upfront and on-bill costs associated with building electrification strategies and draw on existing ordinances from similar jurisdictions to identify barriers to replacement and permit compliance (including equity barriers). Additionally, the City will create a water heater loaner program where residents who are replacing their natural gaspowered water heaters with electric-powered water heaters at the end of their useful lives can borrow or rent a working natural gas water heater from the City (Action BE-2k). In addition to reducing long-term cost burdens, electrification will also improve indoor air quality and increase home values.

BE-2 Electrify existing residential buildings to reduce natural gas consumption 26% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

BE-2a Adopt a reach code in 2024 requiring all central air conditioning unit installations and replacements
be two-way, providing both heating and cooling
with a single unit for residential buildings.

The ordinance would apply to projects after
calendar year 2024. The ordinance would be
implemented through the building permit process.

BE-2b After calendar year 2024, include major
renovations (i.e., projects that affect over 50% of
the building, add an additional 50% of gross floor
space to the building, or value more than 50% of
32 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

24. https://greenlining.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Greenlining_EquitableElectrification_Report_2019_WEB.pdf Emissions
Reductions
2030: 4,778
2045: 19,273
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Residential natural gas
consumption (% change)

BE-2b
cont.
the assessed value of the property at time of application submittal) in the all-electric new residential building requirements.

BE-2d Partner with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development to create a virtual all-electric building resource center to provide residents information on available electrification assessments, turn-key installations by BayREN and/or state vetted contractors, low up-front costs and on-bill financing, and equipment and labor warranties.

BE-1e As part of the building electrification resource center, partner with a provider such as Rising Sun to provide free assessments to rental and multi-family properties, as well as seniors and residents living on low incomes.

BE-2f Partner with MCE and PG&E to review incentives, rebates, and on-bill financing options for procedural equity and then update the incentives to remove the identified barriers.

BE-2g Partner with properties in Pinole that provide existing deed-restricted affordable housing, MCE, PG&E, and BayREN to initiate and complete an affordable housing electrification pilot project.

Project will implement energy efficiency strategies to mitigate increased energy bills for occupants. Promote the pilot project as a case study for future projects in the City and the region.

BE-2h Work with MCE and PG&E to conduct a cost-effectiveness study and design electricity and natural gas billing rates that make electrification the most cost-effective option to reduce energy bill burdens for residents living on low- and moderate-incomes.

BE-2i Provide education around cooking with electric appliances and partner with local chefs, restaurants and/or Kitchen@812 to host cooking demonstrations at community events such as the Farmers Market. Integrate locally sourced food into the demonstrations to also educate community members on the GHG emission reduction and resilience benefits of local food. 33 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) BE-2j Enforce ordinance compliance through a comprehensive permitting compliance program which may include, but is not limited to:
▪ Providing dedicated time for routine staff training to incorporate into existing building inspections.
▪ Imposing fees for noncompliance to offset staff costs and encouraging voluntary compliance. ▪ Establishing easy-to-understand web-based compliance checklists and permit applications. ▪ Facilitating online permitting.
▪ Providing zero-cost permit fees for heat pump installations.

BE-2c Complete a residential existing building electrification feasibility analysis by 2024 to determine the upfront and on-bill costs associated with building electrification strategies and draw on existing ordinances from similar jurisdictions to identify barriers to replacement and permit compliance (including equity barriers). This information will be used to inform and support future updates to the existing building electrification ordinances as well as the building electrification resource center (Action BE-2e).

BE-2l Partner with Rising Sun, or similar entity, to continue providing “Green House Calls” to residents to recommend energy-saving appliances and programs to help offset the costs of electrification. 34 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) BE-2m Work with PG&E to identify opportunities for natural gas infrastructure pruning to reduce the chance of stranded assets, provide potential funding, and establish an efficient transition to carbon-neutral buildings. Engage local developers, MCE, and vulnerable populations to assess the feasibility of adopting an end-of-flow ordinance that would require natural gas lines be capped and decommissioned in existing buildings by 2045.

BE-2n Adopt an end-of-flow ordinance that would require natural gas lines by capped and decommissioned in existing buildings by 2045.
“I'm not really sure how to track my home's energy
consumption. But I do want to start tracking it. To see how my family and I can improve. I'm planning to ask my parents about it.”
– Pinole Community Member
BE-2k Develop and implement a water heater loan program where residents who are replacing their natural gas-powered water heaters with electric-powered water heaters at the end of their useful lives can borrow or rent at no cost a working natural gas water heater from the City for a limited period of time (e.g., three weeks) to use during any electrical panel upgrade requirements to install an electric water heater. Participation in this program could serve as a mechanism to support thoughtful residential transition. Consider expanding the loan program to induction stoves as well.

Building Energy
Similar to residential building electrification, we must pursue commercial building electrification equitably to help small and minority-owned businesses benefit from electrification rather than be left with increasingly expensive gas appliances. Electrifying businesses involves buildings of larger sizes and different purposes. Therefore, this measure was designed to include the development of a building performance program to target a GHG per square foot goal for all commercial buildings over 20,000 square feet which will be implemented through three phases: data collection, retro commissioning, and performance standards. While the technology does exist today to fully electrify all commercial buildings, we must support our business owners to understand the options, resources, and benefits to electrifying their business. This measure has been developed to successfully electrify commercial buildings and mitigate the greatest impacts of climate change, by including education programs to raise awareness among business owners, provide financial incentives, and offer access to expertise regarding the options, support, and benefits of electrifying their establishments.

BE-3 Electrify existing commercial and mixed-use (i.e., combined commercial and residential) buildings to reduce natural gas consumption 18% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

BE-3a Complete an existing commercial building
electrification feasibility analysis in 2024 to
determine the upfront and on-bill costs associated
with building electrification strategies and draw on
existing ordinances from similar jurisdictions to
identify barriers to replacement and permit
compliance (including equity barriers).
35 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 997
2045: 5,868
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Commercial natural gas
consumption (% change)
BE-3b Adopt a reach code in 2024 requiring all central air conditioning unit installations and replacements
be two-way, providing both heating and cooling

with a single unit for commercial and mixed-use buildings. The ordinance will be implemented through the building permit process. Track annual progress on commercial and mixed-use building electrification through the same permit tracking program developed for residential building electrification.

BE-3c Evaluate the success of the pilot Pinole Energy Efficiency Rebate Program which offers for calendar year 2024 additional rebates to Pinole residents for energy efficiency improvements stacked on top of federal, state, or regional rebates or discounts. Work with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development to restructure the pilot program as needed. Seek annual grant funding sources to sustain and support the program through.

BE-3d Develop a building performance standard program to meet a specific level of energy use per square foot for all commercial and industrial buildings over 20,000 square feet.

Implementation and compliance support, including resources and tools which will be implemented through four phases:

1. Pre-development phase –Phase 1 – Staff to receive technical assistance from the Building Technologies Office in the Federal Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE).

Per the EERE, technical assistance may take the form of:
▪ Building stock analyses, including analysis of energy and emission impacts associated with building performance standard adoption
▪ Performance target-setting and trajectories
▪ Measure and technology prioritization and packaging
▪ Cost-effectiveness analyses

2. Data collection phase –Phase 2 – All commercial and industrial building owners with floor area over 20,000 square feet report electricity and natural gas data through energy star portfolio manager

3. Retro commissioning phase –Phase 3 – All covered building owners complete a retro commissioning process to identify and correct system inefficiencies while identifying opportunities for electrification and downsizing of oversized equipment.

4. GHG Performance Standard –Phase 4 – Implement a building performance standard that requires buildings to meet a specific GHG performance level BE-3e Conduct targeted outreach and complete tailored campaigns during development of the building performance program (Action BE-3d) and electrification ordinance (Action BE-3b) to identify potential barriers to commercial and mixed-use electrification (including equity barriers) and educate commercial and mixed-use property owners on the potential cost savings and other benefits of electrification. Include targeted outreach to building owners that rent or lease space to small businesses and minority-owned businesses as well as the business owners and conduct a survey to such businesses to identify specific resources needed to support equitable building electrification.
36 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) BE-3b
cont.

BE-3f Partner with Contra Costa County to provide small and minority-owned businesses, as well as commercial property owners who rent or lease space such business, electrification assessments.

These assessments will be conducted by BayREN or state vetted contractors and include turnkey installations at low up-front costs. Additionally, the building electrification resource center (Action BE-2e) will provide equipment and labor warranties. Furthermore, partner with MCE or PG&E to provide on-bill financing.

BE-3g Partner with the Bay Area Council, Bay Front Chamber of Commerce, and Contra Costa County Green Business Program to inform, encourage, and facilitate electrification for commercial business owners.
37 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) BE-3h Review incentives and rebates (from Action BE-3i) for procedural equity and develop a process so that existing and updated incentive programs continue to be equitably distributed to the community. Hurdles to equitable implementation could include credit checks, excessive procedural roadblocks, and lack of targeted outreach.

BE-3i Work with MCE and PG&E to incentivize all-electric retrofits by combining rebate programs and financing mechanisms to create cost-effective electrification packages and develop bulkpurchasing opportunities for multi-unit development owners. Additionally, work with BayREN to educate the business community about the available incentives and include direct outreach to small, and frontline community-owned businesses and property owners who rent and lease space to frontline community-owned businesses.

BE-3j Work with BayREN to identify highly efficient net zero energy building owners that meet the CPUC’s hard-to-reach criteria and recognize them through the City’s communication channels.

Publicize commercial tax breaks to these building owners as well as commercial developers in Pinole.

BE-3k Re-evaluate the building performance program (Action BE-3d) every three years to gauge implementation progress and phase expansion of program to smaller buildings.

BE-3l Review and update Section 15.46.020 of the Municipal Code to require upon a transfer of ownership the disclosure of additional relevant weatherization information (e.g., ventilation standards, wall insulation, and installation of programmable thermostats) for residences and commercial buildings over 5,000 square feet. As part of this, work with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development to promote the Weatherization Program for qualifying residents. Additionally, develop a City-specific disclosure checklist and coordinate with realtors/brokers to engrain the City’s resale requirements into their work with buyers and sellers.

Building Energy
MCE’s Deep Green service eliminates fossil fuels sources electricity from their service, providing electricity from 100 percent renewable sources (i.e., solar, hydro, and wind).25 While the California grid will continue to get cleaner as the Renewable Portfolio Standard progresses, MCE provides Pinole with GHG emission reduction potential in the meantime—especially when paired with allelectric buildings. Maintaining enrollment in MCE Deep Green will help leverage the benefits of renewable energy, fostering a sustainable and resilient community while reducing GHG emissions.

The City will adopt a resolution to enroll all of Pinole’s residents and businesses in MCE’s Deep Green (or alternatively, Light Green if it is 100 percent carbon-free) by 2030 (Action BE-4a), and work with MCE as part of Action BE-4b to create a funding and subsidy plan/program for customers enrolled in the CARE or FERA programs to opt-up to MCE’s Deep Green option. The City will continue working with MCE to understand the hurdles and barriers that residents and business owners may encounter related to maintaining low opt-out rates as well as provide education and targeted outreach that clearly detail the benefits of using carbon free and renewable energy in homes and businesses.

BE-4 Work with MCE to provide 100% carbon-free and renewable energy to at least 95% of the community by 2030.

BE-4a Support MCE in building capacity and funding to
provide all Pinole customers 100% carbon-free
and renewable energy and adopt a City resolution
to automatically enroll all Pinole residents and
businesses in carbon-free and renewable from
MCE (e.g., MCE’s Deep Green option) by 2030. The
resolution shall include identification of a funding
or subsidy plan/program (Action BE-4b) to avoid
cost increases to customers enrolled in the
California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) or
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs
(Action BE-4b).
38 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

25. https://www.c2es.org/content/renewable-energy/
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 3,200
2045: 0
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Accounts enrolled in MCE
Deep Green (%)
▪ Communitywide electricity
emission factor (MT
CO2e/kWh)

BE-4c Continue to work with MCE to conduct an annual analysis of opt-out rates in the City and expand the research to understand why residents and businesses opt out of MCE. Include targeted outreach to residents living on low- and fixed-incomes and vulnerable communities to identify barriers to remaining with MCE.

BE-4d Continue to partner with MCE to conduct educational campaigns, including tabling at community events, establishing informational resources on the City's website, regularly posting on social media, and developing energy bill inserts, to highlight the benefits of 100% renewable energy and promote the available incentives.

BE-4e Conduct targeted outreach campaigns to convert PG&E direct access customers to MCE by promoting available incentives and promoting the economic and business benefits of 100% renewable energy.
39 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) BE-4b In support of Action BE-4a, work with MCE to create a funding and subsidy plan/program for customers enrolled in the CARE or FERA programs to opt-up to MCE’s Deep Green option. This may include subsidizing costs to customers who participate in CARE/FERA programs through non-discounted customer rate increase or obtainment of funding for vulnerable communities.

Building Energy
While all-electric buildings can be carbon neutral and produce lower energy bills than those powered by natural gas, we must also prioritize reliability and safety. Pairing all-electric buildings with local solar photovoltaics and battery storage can insulate the community from public safety power shutoffs and grid outages, increasing the resilience of our buildings. Additionally, local solar and battery storage can reduce energy bill burdens by reducing the electricity purchased from the grid and avoiding purchase during peak hours. However, solar and battery storage come with high upfront costs that may be difficult for members of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities to prioritize. There can also be a disconnect between owners and occupants of rental or multi-family properties where the owner takes on the cost burden and the residents reap the benefits. To create an equitable transition to renewable energy, the actions developed with the measure provide a framework that focuses on partnerships (Action BE-5d) and financing mechanisms (Action BE-5f) to provide local solar to disadvantaged and vulnerable communities and explore opportunities for community solar. Increased use of renewable energy and zero-carbon sources supports SB 100, which requires at least 60 percent of energy supplied in California be renewable by 2030 and be 100 percent renewable and carbon-free by 2045.26
BE-5 Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy.

BE-5a Adopt a Solar Ordinance requiring newly
constructed and majorly renovated multi-family
and commercial buildings to install solar systems
and storage that meet minimum requirements of
Tier 2 Voluntary Standards under CalGreen.

BE-5b Continue to establish and streamline standards,
permit requirements and processes for
electrification-related installations such battery
storage systems to allow for easier
implementation of these technologies in the City.
40 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
Not
Quantified
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Renewable energy
generation capacity
installed (MWh)
▪ Energy storage capacity
installed (MWh)

26. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sb100

BE-5c Install a co-located community solar and storage facility to benefit affordable housing sites using Equity Resilience Incentives under the Self-Generation Incentive Program available through the California Public Utilities Commission.

BE-5e Expand the partnership with GRID Alternatives through increased funding/support and promote the benefits of renewable energy through multi-lingual educational programs to facilitate an equitable transition to renewable energy.

BE-5f Partner with CBOs and homeowner’s associations (HOAs) through the City’s professional grant writing consultant, who will support the identification, conceptualization, preparation, and submittal of grant applications to secure funding for community-scale renewable energy projects. Utilize any grant funded projects as City pilot projects to demonstrate the success of the program and opportunities available.
41 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) “The faster we implement energy source revisions or
investments; the more money Pinole will save in the long run.” – Pinole Community Member
BE-5d Collaborate with PG&E, MCE, Contra Costa College, the Academy of Art University School of Motion Pictures & Television and/or other regional and local community partners to support and incentivize local on-site energy generation and storage resources. This could include:
▪ Connecting home and business owners, particularly those in vulnerable communities, to incentives for renewable energy and storage including Net Metering Programs through PG&E for bill credits, the federal investment tax credit, and the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) Disadvantaged Communities-Single-Family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) program, Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)and Equity Resilience rebates that provide an upfront rebate for battery storage.
▪ Promoting installation of storage technology in concert with renewable energy infrastructure through multilingual education programs, outreach, and information provided via City platforms and communication channels.
▪ Create community spotlight campaigns highlighting interviews with Pinoleans who have paired installation of storage technology with renewable energy infrastructure. ▪ Providing workshops to large commercial developers and large business property owners on the benefits of microgrids and energy resilience.
▪ Creating a strike team to conduct engagement efforts for the commercial sector to identify ways the City can support commercial energy storage installations and neighborhood scale microgrid opportunities.

Transportation
TR-1 Create a safe and connected active transportation
network linked to Pinole Creek to increase active
transportation mode share to 5.5% by 2030 and 11.5%
by 2045.

TR-2 Implement public and shared transit improvements and programs to achieve a 13% public transit mode share by
2030 and 18% by 2045.

TR-3 Develop programs and policies to discourage driving single passenger vehicles and to support the active
transportation and public transit mode share goals of
Measures TR-1 and TR-2.

TR-4 Increase passenger zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) use and adoption to 33% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

TR-5 Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) use and adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

TR-6 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 15% of off-road equipment operations by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
42 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Transportation
In addition to reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT), and in turn GHG emissions, increasing safe active transportation options provides health, mobility, and livability benefits. Increasing opportunities for safe active transportation—any self-propelled, human-powered form of transportation such as walking, biking, skating, or scooting —increases our opportunity for physical exercise and recreational activities. With the Pinole Creek traversing the City, we have a direct opportunity to provide interconnected network that links residential neighborhoods, schools, and commercial centers to Pinole Creek and thereby to each other (Action TR-1b). Active transportation also improves mobility, providing community members who cannot drive with affordable options to travel safely and independently. Simultaneously, it bridges the first- and last-mile gap by providing extended mobility options. This measure will include completion and implementation of the Active Transportation Plan (Walk and Roll Pinole), which is being prepared as of the time of this drafting.27 The City will also periodically host open street events to transform streets into non-motorized spaces instantly and at a low cost. We can collectively overcome the traditional hurdles associated with active transportation (e.g., infrastructure constraints, safety concerns, and inadequate facilities) through thoughtful planning, investing in active transportation infrastructure, implementing safety improvements, and fostering a cultural evolution towards making Pinole a 15- minute City, which is defined as a community where people can access key amenities by actively commuting no more than 15 minutes.

TR-1 Create a safe and connected active transportation network linked to Pinole Creek to increase active transportation mode share to 5.5% by 2030 and

11.5% by 2045.

TR-1a Conduct an analysis of existing bicycle and
pedestrian conditions during the development of
the Active Transportation Plan with a focus on
identifying residential communities, commercial
uses, schools, and open spaces currently
disconnected from the Creek, due to freeways and
lack of connections on busy roads. Build on the
interactive map created to solicit community input
regarding the Active Transportation Plan on
“Pinole Speaks,” the City’s public input website to
display the active transportation conditions
43 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

27. https://ghd.mysocialpinpoint.com/pinole_atp
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 107
2045: 256
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Active transportation mode
share (%)
▪ Bike lanes installed (miles)
▪ Bicycle repair stations and
parking structures installed (#)

TR-1b Complete the Active Transportation Plan with a focus on creating safe and connected active transportation networks that link residential neighborhoods, schools, and commercial centers to Pinole Creek and thereby to each other. The plan will include:
▪ A prioritized list of pathways to be installed or upgraded to include shared-use paths, buffered bike lanes, bike boulevards, and separated bikeways. ▪ A prioritized list of bicycle parking or storage and equipment repair infrastructure. ▪ Information on additional infrastructure installed as part of the plan, such as trash and recycling receptacles to prevent waste from entering the creek due to increased usage. ▪ A schedule for reducing vehicle speed limits at prioritized locations. ▪ Available funding sources for infrastructure buildout. ▪ Use of sustainable materials, when feasible
Prioritization shall focus on achieving an equitable active transportation system where all Pinole residents have access to critical connections and mobility options.

TR-1c Partner with Contra Costa Transportation Authority to pursue funding from Caltrans’ Active Transportation Program or similar funding opportunities to implement improvements from the City’s Active Transportation Plan.

TR-1d Partner with an entity such as the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, 511 Contra Costa, or the Contra Costa Transportation Authority to expand existing rebate programs to help families living in Pinole on low- and fixed-incomes purchase alternative modes of transportation (e.g., bicycles, scooters, rollerblades, skates, skateboards) and appropriate safety gear.

TR-1e Partner with Bike East Bay and/or other non-profit groups to periodically close streets with connections and vistas of the Creek to cars to host walk/bike/roll (car-free) community events that demonstrate the benefits of a safe and connected active transportation network. Coincide these community events with regular active transportation events to encourage and reward residents for participation.
44 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) TR-1f Partner with schools, youth sports leagues, the Pinole Police Department, the Pinole Community Services Commission and community groups such as Friends of Pinole Creek Watershed, 511 Contra Costa, Pinole Valley Earth Team, Pinole Rotary, and local Tribes to teach students and families bicycle and pedestrian safety and educate them on the safe route availability and the health and environmental benefits of walking and bicycling, as well as the history of the Pinole Creek ecosystem and surrounding natural lands.

TR-1a
cont.
identified and allow community feedback through the webpage.

TR-1g Partner with an electric bike provider or rental company to pilot an electric-bike rental program at the Pinole Library. Track use of the program, including equity indicators, to monitor its success and evaluate continuation of the program.

TR-1h Install bike repair stations along the Pinole Creek and other prime locations, and consider partnering with a local bike shop to provide quarterly bicycle repair support for residents traveling along the bike path or at a designated, central location.

45 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) “Most services can be accessed on
foot, but there are some barriers and
difficult routes, missing curb cuts and
unmarked crossings. These
improvements would make the city
safer for pedestrians.”
– Pinole Community Member
TR-1j Implement 100% of the Active Transportation Plan by 2030 to achieve a 5.5% active transportation mode share by 2030 and 11.5% by 2045.

Transportation
Increasing public transit mode share provides benefits beyond reducing GHG emissions from vehicles. Public transit and shared transportation can shift communities towards a healthier future by reducing local air pollutants and boosting quality of life. Public transportation has substantially lower crash rates and lower crash severity than automotive travel. It also provides cost saving opportunities to the public due to savings from less fuel, maintenance, insurance, and registration costs.28 Further, public transportation fosters public health improvements because most public transit users regularly walk or bike to access points. This trend can result in improved health and reduced medical expenses when coupled with the local air quality improvements that reduced mobile combustion of fossil fuels provides. Based on community responses to the CAAP survey, approximately 78 percent of respondents said that they do not utilize active transportation currently because it takes too long to get where they need to go. Approximately 61 percent of respondents also noted that they like the freedom of leaving and arriving on their own schedule. Therefore, implementation of this measure would include completing a prioritization study to determine transit priority corridors and the best potential locations for expansion to improve transit accessibility.

Based on the prioritization study, a plan would be developed to expand routes and schedules; provide consistent labeling; create safe, clean, and convenient shelters; and monitor the routes to confirm they meet the needs of the community.

TR-2 Implement public and shared transit improvements and programs to achieve a 13% public transit mode share by 2030 and 18% by 2045.

TR-2a Partner with Western Contra Costa Transit
(WestCAT) to conduct a prioritization study to
determine transit priority corridors and best
potential locations for WestCAT expansions
(including the Hercules Intermodal Transit Center
and Richmond BART Station) to reduce transit
travel times from/to Pinole. The study shall include
an analysis of existing shelters and schedules, a
survey of existing commuter patterns, analysis of
potential latent demand, and targeted outreach to
residents living on low- and moderate-incomes
46 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

28. https://www.transportation.gov/mission/health/Expand-Public-Transportation-Systems-and-OfferIncentives#:~:text=Investments%20in%20public%20transportation%20have,crash%20severity%20than%20automotive%20travel .

Emissions
Reductions
2030: 256
2045: 559
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Public transit mode share
(%)
▪ Bus service added
(hours/week or miles)

TR-2c Work with WestCAT to complete an analysis of potential design improvements, such as seating and shading bus shelters and along active transportation routes to increase use.

TR-2d Work with WestCAT to improve transit accessibility for people with disabilities by ensuring physical accessibility (i.e., ramps, lifts, and tactile paving), providing both audio and visual information; training staff on how to assist people with disabilities and handle equipment; and actively engage people with disabilities in the decision-making process.

TR-2e Partner with WestCAT and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority to implement a free public transit pilot program for students, foster youth, and unhoused youth in Pinole that makes it free for participants to travel via WestCAT.

TR-2f Based on the prioritization studies (TR-2a - TR-2c), develop a plan to prioritize infrastructure improvements in existing neighborhoods that increase access to and use of public transit. The plan shall include projects and timelines to:
▪ Expand WestCAT routes and schedules
▪ Cohesively identify all existing and new shelters so that there is consistent branding, map formats and information displays (this would also support implementation of Measure EH-1) ▪ Provide safe and convenient shelters with benches, shade, hand sanitizing stations, area maps, and native plants
▪ Establish a schedule to annually monitor routes and schedules to confirm they meet the needs of the community
TR-2h Partner with 511 Contra Costa to educate Pinole residents, commuters, and students on available transit opportunities through free commute consultations and provide qualifying commuters with financial incentives to take transit, such as pre-loaded Clipper cards and a Guaranteed Ride Home program.

TR-2i Partner with WestCAT and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority to pursue funding for the prioritization study and plan (TR-2a - c and TR-2f) through MTC’s One Bay Area Grant funding, or similar funding opportunities.

TR-2j Partner with the West Contra Costa Unified School District and/or private schools to evaluate mobility needs and expand bus routes where necessary to increase access to and use of school bus transportation to schools, including services for after-school hours for student and their guardians
47 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) TR-2a
cont.
and members of vulnerable communities to understand the concerns around or equity barriers to using public and/or shared transit.

TR-2b Conduct a feasibility study to assess the potential impacts and costs of a park-and-ride facility in Pinole and identify potential locations.

TR-2g Engage with Caltrans to design and install a park and ride facility, which may include implementing efficient traffic flow systems.

Transportation
We recognize that supporting active transportation and public transit will require making the systems more accessible, convenient, and safer (Measure TR-1 and TR-2) and coupled with implementation of programs and policies to discourage driving, we can realize meaningful transformations in our mobility network that impact much more than just transportation.

Developing programs and policies to discourage driving single occupancy vehicles such as the development of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plans that provide a defined set of strategies aimed at maximizing traveler choices (Action TR-3a) will be a primary component of this measure.29 This measure also includes an action to create a Pinole Parklets program in existing parking areas with a distinctive design that incorporates seating, greenery, and/or bike racks and accommodate unmet demand for public space on neighborhood retail streets or commercial areas (Action TR-3b). Implementation of this measure would also include developing partnerships to identify gaps in the mobility network to prioritize cross-jurisdictional collaboration and connect the region, reducing the need for single occupancy vehicles. Additionally, the City will analyze and work to mitigate the potential community impacts and feasibility and benefits of implementing disincentive-based policies for driving single-passenger vehicles.

TR-3 Develop programs and policies to discourage driving single passenger vehicles and to support the active transportation and public transit mode share goals of Measures TR-1 and TR-2.

TR-3a Adopt an ordinance requiring all employers to
develop a Transportation Demand Management
(TDM) Plan and require large employers (i.e., more
than 25 employees) to include money-based
incentives for employees to bike, walk, carpool, or
take public transit to work. Additionally, complete
a comprehensive study to establish an Average
Vehicle Ridership (AVR) that accurately reflects
Measure TR-1 and TR-2's goals.

29. https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/plan4ops/trans_demand.htm
48 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
Not
Quantified
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Ordinance adopted
▪ Feasibility study status
▪ Parklets installed (#)

TR-3d Partner with local jurisdictions, public transit providers, and CBOs to identify gaps in the mobility network that can be prioritized for cross-jurisdictional collaboration to connect the region and reduce the need for single occupancy vehicles.

TR-3e Conduct an analysis of the potential community impacts and feasibility and benefits of implementing disincentive-based policies for driving single-passenger vehicles, including a congestion charge program, limiting parking options, increased local taxes (income tax, gasoline tax, or car registration tax), and Transportation Network Companies (TNC) user taxes. Include analysis of potential equity impacts of the policies and identification of potential equity metrics to address equity concerns when developing policies.

TR-3f Consider opportunities to fund transportation system improvements through disincentive-based program revenues and/or a tiered TDM fee for employers who do not achieve the established AVR by 2030 to establish an equitable transition to more sustainable modes of transportation.

TR-3g Conduct AVR surveys of Pinole businesses every three years to determine weekday AVR and mode share split, perceived barriers to telecommuting and alternative modes of transportation (i.e., modes other than single-occupancy vehicles), and interest in sustainable transportation amenities, infrastructure, and events/resources.

TR-3h Consider development applications that will improve the community by increasing density in transit-rich areas and connecting residents of multi-family, and/or affordable housing sites to public and shared transit options.
49 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) “Better active transportation infrastructure seems
achievable to me and seems it could provide economic
benefits as well.
– Pinole Community Member
TR-3b Create a Pinole Parklets Program to install parklets in the downtown and other commercial areas of the City and engage with businesses to gain sponsorship for the parklets.

TR-3c Require informative signage be included at the parklets designed through the Pinole Parklet Program (Action TR-3b) that provide information on the benefits of ecosystem services at all scales, and the health impacts associated with reducing single occupancy vehicle trips.

Transportation
Widespread adoption of passenger ZEVs provides a range of benefits including reduced GHG emissions from avoiding local combustion of fossil fuels; improved public health through enhanced overall air quality;30 and cost savings by reducing dependence on traditional fuel sources.31 However, it is important that the transition is equitable and accessible. Purchasing or leasing a ZEV and upgrading infrastructure to allow for charging can be an upfront cost difficult for members of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities to prioritize. Similarly, residents of rental and multifamily properties may lack the property rights to make upgrades. Therefore, we will focus on an equitable transition to ZEVs through installation of 270 publicly available chargers by 2030, implementation of financing mechanism, and education. Locations for the chargers will be determined during completion of a preliminary feasibility study that will include an evaluation of opportunities and prioritization of locations to increase the equitable distribution of publicly available EV chargers to residents of multi-family homes and residents living on low- and moderateincomes, as well as consideration for optimizing daytime charging by placing chargers at locations where people are most frequently during the day. The City will also work with MCE and PG&E to incentivize residential electric vehicle charger installations and panel upgrades through on-bill financing.

TR-4 Increase passenger zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) use and adoption to 33% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

TR-4a Adopt an EV reach code by 2025 requiring new
commercial and multifamily construction to install
the minimum number of EV chargers based on Tier
2 CalGreen requirements (20% of total parking
spaces).
50 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

30. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969723003765?via%3Dihub

31. https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity_benefits.html Emissions
Reductions
2030: 3,832
2045: 13,839
TR-4b Adopt an EV reach code by 2026 requiring major
multifamily building retrofits to install the
minimum number of EV chargers based on Tier 2
CalGreen requirements (20% of total parking
spaces) and major commercial retrofits (with a
square footage larger than 10,000 square feet or
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Passenger ZEV adoption (%)
▪ Publicly accessible chargers
installed (#)

TR-4e Prepare a feasibility study to evaluate opportunities for installation of EV charging stations at City owned facilities. The feasibility study will assess electrical capacity, electrical demand, financial constraints, funding sources and parking utilization to provide a prioritized list of locations to install new publicly accessible EV charging stations.

TR-4f In the feasibility study, include evaluation of opportunities and prioritization of locations to increase the equitable distribution of publicly available EV chargers to residents of multi-family homes and residents living on low- and moderate-incomes, as well as consideration for optimizing daytime charging.

TR-4g Work with MCE and PG&E to incentivize residential electric vehicle charger installations and panel upgrades through on-bill financing. Promote the incentives through multi-lingual outreach material on the City’s website and at community events. 51 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) TR-4b
cont.
modifications for electric service panels) to meet CalGreen requirements for “EV Ready” charging spaces and infrastructure.

TR-4c Adopt an ordinance that bans the development of any new, or expansion, renovation or relations of any existing, fossil fuel gas stations in the City prior to the expiration of the Urgency Ordinance. The process should include:

1. Determining and defining an outreach process.

2. Preparing a General Plan, Specific Plan, and Zoning Ordinance text amendment, which would establish Service Station land use as Not Permitted by Table 17.20.030-1 in the PMC, making all existing service stations legal non-conforming and subject to Section 17.14.080 of the Municipal Code.

3. Determine if any streamlining enhancements to existing provisions in the PMC that incentivize the expansion, modification, or retrofit of an existing service station to incorporate biodiesel or other alternative fuels or charging stations for electric vehicles should be considered.

4. Take the Amendments through the required public review process, including Planning Commission recommendation and City Council adoption.

5. Continue to direct staff to explore options for additional charging at City-owned/maintained properties and private facilities for public benefit.

TR-4d Update Pinole’s permit process for EV chargers to create a streamlined process for residents and businesses that is consistent with the State’s Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permitting Guidebook (as well as AB 970, AB 1236, and Pinole Municipal Code Chapter 15.58).

TR-4i Coordinate with community-based organizations, local agencies, and non-profits such as Charge Up Contra Costa, 511 Contra Costa, and Cool the Earth to conduct zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) education events for residents and targeted events for residents living on low- and moderateincomes as well as residents living in multi-family buildings that would engage the community to evaluate the barriers to ZEV adoption, promote information on the costs and benefits of owning ZEVs, and detail the steps on how to receive incentives for ZEVs.

TR-4h Work with MCE to promote and provide technical assistance for their Residential EV Rate Plan and MCE Sync charging app to help community members charge during off-peak hours and save money on home charging.

TR-4m Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority to develop a zero-emission vehicle car share network.
52 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) TR-4k Develop an equitable charging fee structure that provides accessibility for all users, regardless of socio-economic background, fostering inclusivity and promoting widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

TR-4l Develop outreach and education materials and distribute them to local businesses, property owners, and developers on the financial (e.g., new funding streams), environmental, and health, and safety benefits of ZEVs. Provide information on available funding opportunities and the City’s streamlined permitting process.

TR-4j Work with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development to create an EV charging etiquette policy that encourages a seamless charging experience, fosters community collaboration, and promotes sustainable practices for the benefit of all electric vehicle users and the environment.

TR-4n Coordinate with car share companies and community-groups to develop an affordable, zeroemission vehicle car share program to serve affordable housing and/or multifamily developments with a priority to target residents living on low- and moderate-incomes.

TR-4o Based on the prioritized list of locations developed through actions TR-4d and TR-4e, install at least 267 new publicly accessible level II chargers by 2030 and 323 by 2045, through publicprivate partnerships and on City-owned properties.

Transportation
Commercial ZEVs, such as electric delivery vehicles, can help to reduce operating costs by minimizing fuel and maintenance expenses. For this transition to be successful, it is important that businesses of all sizes have access to the resources and support they need to make the transition. Dieselpowered commercial vehicles are a significant source of particulate matter and other harmful pollutants, which can have negative health impacts, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions. By transitioning to ZEVs, businesses can contribute to cleaner air and a healthier community and play an active role in establishing the most sustainable future. Implementation will include analyzing the commercial vehicle fleets in the City and identifying employers to work with to accelerate ZEV adoption through outreach and education.

Additionally, the City will identify opportunities to fund additional charging infrastructure through leveraging public/private partnerships and implement local tax breaks to incentivize commercial fleet electrification, where feasible.

TR-5 Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) use and adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

TR-5a Work with the Bay Area Air Quality Management
District, Pacific Gas & Electric, and or similar
entities to identify and provide funding for electric
vehicles and charging infrastructure for
disadvantaged or vulnerable business owners.

TR-5b Create a summary of commercial vehicle fleets in
Pinole and identify employers to work with to
accelerate ZEV adoption through targeted
education.
53 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 2,303
2045: 8,186
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Commercial ZEV adoption
(%)

TR-5e Investigate opportunities to help fund additional EV charging infrastructure by leveraging public/private partnerships and ensuring the City is charging for EV infrastructure use at Cityowned facilities. 54 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) TR-5c Encourage commercial vehicle fleet operators to accelerate electrification by providing them educational material on the benefits of zero emission vehicles (e.g., fuel cost savings through networked charging and current availability of zero emission vehicles ahead of State mandates), educating them on the City’s streamlined permitting process, and compiling and distributing information on potential funding opportunities.

TR-5d Implement local tax breaks to incentivize commercial fleet electrification.

Transportation
Decarbonizing off-road equipment offers significant GHG emission reductions and air quality improvements. Off-road equipment, such as landscaping equipment and construction equipment, emit both GHG emissions (approximately 7 percent of the City’s total emissions, as shown in Chapter 2) and local smog-forming emissions. In California, total smog-forming emissions32 from small offroad engines exceed emissions from light-duty passenger vehicles.33 Operating a commercial gaspowered leaf blower for one hour emits smog-forming pollution comparable to driving a new lightduty passenger car about 1,100 mile or over 15 hours of driving. These characteristics mean zeroemission alternatives for off-road equipment can help create a cleaner and healthier City. However, decarbonizing off-road equipment requires upfront costs that can be difficult for residential and business members of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities to navigate. An equitable transition to zero-emission off-road alternatives, as supported specifically by Actions TR-6d and TR-6e, requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the technical and financial barriers to adoption. As part of this, the City will develop a multi-lingual Off-road Equipment Replacement Outreach Campaign that provides information to contractors, residents, and fleet operators in the City.

TR-6 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 15% of off-road equipment operations by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

TR-6a Create a phased ordinance by 2026 to ban the
local operation of gasoline and diesel-powered offroad equipment by type (e.g., lawn and garden, construction), including banning local operation of
gasoline and diesel-powered small off-road
equipment (SORE) by 2028. Update the ordinance
based on a regular review of relevant state
regulations, regional rules, and available
technology.
55 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 1,245
2045: 10,721

32. Although not a GHG emission, smog is directly related and is the most pervasive form of air pollution, immediately impacting our ability to breathe and causing underlying health conditions to worsen. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/topics/air-pollution

33. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/sore-small-engine-fact-sheet Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Off-road equipment
decarbonized (%)

TR-6c As part of Action TR-6b’s program, investigate off-road equipment fleets in the City to identify fleets with the highest decarbonization potential, fleets owned by small and minority businesses that will need targeted support and incentives to decarbonize or electrify, and fleets that do not currently have zero-emission alternatives. Utilize these findings to develop the phased off-road ordinances.

TR-6d As part of Action TR-6b’s program, develop a multi-lingual Off-road Equipment Replacement Outreach Campaign that provides information to contractors, residents, and fleet operators in the City, with a target towards those identified in Action TR-6c. Information should include equivalent alternatives to fossil-fueled off-road equipment, public health, and safety benefits of alternative equipment technology, and funding opportunities available (i.e., Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Program [CORE]).
56 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) TR-6b Establish a communication and outreach program to raise awareness of the ordinance, educate community members on the benefits of and funding opportunities for offroad decarbonization, and collect data on offroad fleet and decarbonization trends in the community (e.g., through outreach sampling and surveying).

TR-6e Partner with surrounding jurisdictions and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to develop a rebate and incentive program for upgrading off-road equipment and switching to electric or biofuels. Develop the program with a focus on procedural equity and prioritize funding distribution to disadvantaged and vulnerable communities.

Solid Waste
SW-1 By 2025, reduce organics to landfill by 75% to meet or exceed SB 1383 organic waste diversion requirements
through composting and edible food recovery.

SW-2 Reduce landfilled inorganic waste 35% by 2030 and 90% by 2045.

SW-3 Meet CalGreen’s current 65% construction and
demolition (C&D) materials diversion requirements on
all covered projects.

SW-4 Analyze opportunities to enhance the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant to divert organic waste from the landfill and increase organics recovery.

SW-5 Establish new programs to meet the City’s SB 1383
annual procurement target (i.e., 1,073 tons of
compost) by 2030.
57 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Solid Waste
SW-1 By 2025, reduce organics to landfill by 75% to meet or exceed SB 1383 organic waste diversion requirements through composting and edible food recovery.

SW-1a Through MOUs with the City's waste haulers,
establish requirements by 2024 for waste haulers
to perform annual performance assessments to
determine compliance with SB 1383 requirements.

If the performance assessments show the hauler is
not on target, meet with the hauler and
RecycleMore staff to establish prioritized actions
for the hauler and/or RecycleMore to complete.

Additionally, utilize the assessments to identify
trends in contamination and integrate lessons
learned into the educational program as part of
Action SW-1e.
58 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Organic waste, which includes any material that is biodegradable and comes from either a plant or an animal, accounts for more than 33 percent of the State’s waste stream.34 In California alone, there are more than 6 million tons of food waste or food scraps thrown into landfills every year, representing approximately 18 percent of all materials that go to a landfill.35 Methane gas, a powerful GHG pollutant 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide, as detailed in Chapter 2 and Appendix A, is released from the anaerobic or oxygen free decomposition of organic waste, making landfills a significant source of GHG emissions. Landfilled organic waste emits 20 percent of the state’s total methane. Therefore, diverting organic waste from landfills through the recovery of edible food for human consumption or through composting prevents these emissions. To implement a successful organic waste diversion program, the City will establish partnerships with local Community Based Organizations to provide clear, multi-lingual outreach materials for high organic generation commercial accounts to educate management and staff about best practices in food waste reduction and surplus food donation (Action SW-1d) as required by SB 1383. Implementation will include developing a comprehensive organics collection and edible food recovery program for low income and fixed income people to ensure access to edible surplus food recipients such as food banks and other food recovery organizations. Additionally, because names have meaningful connotations, the City’s traditional “Dumpster Day” will be rebranded into the City’s “Resource Recovery Day,” in both name and concept.

34. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969723003765?via%3Dihub

35. https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity_benefits.html Emissions
Reductions
2030: 2,934
2045: 3,570
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Landfilled organic waste (%
change)
▪ Edible food diverted (%)

SW-1c In concert with Economic Development programs, establish a Pinole business outreach campaign and recognition program by 2025 to celebrate restaurants/food facilities with the highest diversion and edible food recovery success. Create a space on the City’s CAAP website to highlight the campaign and leaders in the community, as well as provide a plaque or alternative community recognition that emphasizes the successful initiatives.

SW-1d Establish a program by 2024 to distribute organics pails at grocery stores in lower-resourced areas and community events (e.g., Farmers Markets, California Coastal Cleanup Day, Pinole’s Dumpster Day, Earth Walk). Additionally, directly connect with property owners/managers of low- and moderate- income rental housing to distribute food pails directly to housing units.

Through the program, track how many pails are distributed quarterly.

SW-1e Establish and maintain an ongoing education program informing the community about compostable materials and upcoming at-home composting workshops, including regularly updated guidelines on composting, especially paper, distributed bi-annually and made available at the City permit counter, grocery stores, as well as at farmers’ markets, California Coastal Cleanup Day, Pinole’s Dumpster Day, Earth Walk and other community events.

SW-1f Transform Pinole’s “Dumpster Day” into “Resource Recovery Day,” in both name and concept, by introducing a community swap meet element where residents exchange/recycle household goods in preference to conventional commerce and waste. At the event, the City can provide education about organics diversion (including the concept of closing the loop for organics material and edible food recovery) and the “Buy Nothing” movement, and feature special compost giveaway events (e.g., free organics pails). The City will also accept traditionally discarded materials (e.g., glass, clothing, furniture, etc.) and trash item at the Resource Recovery Day.

SW-1g Work with local grocery stores and retail food markets, the Contra Costa and Solano Food Bank Rescue Program, RecycleMore, and community groups to understand the criteria for acceptable food for recovery and establish a more robust food rescue and distribution program to divert additional edible food to food insecure residents.
59 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SW-1b Partner with RecycleMore, Sustainable Contra Costa, or similar entities to complete community based social marketing (CBSM) targeted outreach and education campaign by 2025 to high organic generation commercial accounts to educate and train commercial generators’ management and staff about best practices in food waste reduction and surplus food donation.

As part of this effort, develop successful case studies for Pinole food facilities to provide best practices, cost savings and other methods to energize food facility managers and staff to fully participate in the organics diversion and edible food recovery programs.

SW-1h Identify and support school organizations in the City (e.g., leadership, sustainability, and environmental groups or clubs) to start “Go Organics” programs to initiate, educate, and implement robust organics collection programs on campus in collaboration with the City’s waste hauler and RecycleMore.

SW-1i Develop presentations for all schools in Pinole to:
▪ Educate students, staff, and teachers on how to implement an efficient, yet robust organics collection program.
▪ Educate students, staff, and teachers on the benefits of diverting organics and reducing GHG emissions.

SW-1j Continue to partner with the City’s waste hauler to include quarterly multi-lingual inserts in residential and commercial billing to highlight important programs and initiatives, including the single-use plastic ban and the no-cost organics pails available to residents and the composting programs in Action ID SW-1h, as well as new programs as they are created.

SW-1k Develop a comprehensive outreach program to educate Homeowner Associations, neighborhood associations, and communities on social media platforms such as NextDoor and Pinole Community Television on the City’s organic waste diversion requirements and available programs and resources to increase diversion.

SW-1l Implement a comprehensive organics collection and edible food recovery program for low income and fixed income people to ensure access to edible surplus food recipients such as food banks and other food recovery organizations.
60 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SW-1i
cont.
▪ Engage school leadership on the benefits of establishing a ‘closed loop partnership’ regarding organics. This could include adding organics end products such as mulch and compost delivered from the City’s waste hauler nearby composting facility to school gardens and landscaping, thereby eliminating need for pesticides and herbicides, and increasing water retention in school landscaping.

SW-1m Fund the comprehensive organics collection and edible food recovery program using CalRecycle’s SB 1383 grant funding cycle.

SW-1n Partner with local waste management providers, food recovery organizations, and West Contra Costa Unified School District, private schools in Pinole, or similar entities, to analyze existing food waste generation, disposal practices, and potential sources of edible surplus food.

SW-1o Install compost bins throughout the City in all locations where there are landfill and recycling bins to collect organics generated. Ensure that there is clear signage and the bins are emptied routinely. Incorporate the hauling requirements into the waste hauler’s contract to confirm proper management and disposal.

Solid Waste
Reducing landfilled inorganic waste does not directly reduce GHG emissions, however, it is a supportive measure that contributes to the overall goals of the CAAP. Inorganic waste is composed of waste that is not plant or animal-based, including synthetic materials (plastics, polyester, acrylic, rubber, etc.) sand, dust, and glass. As we continue to reduce and change our consumption patterns, we can make conscientious decisions to implement new solutions to reduce waste. As such, waste reduction is key, followed by implementing new waste management solutions, such as adopting a Zero Waste Policy and Zero Waste Strategic Plan (Action SW-2a) to guide waste reduction and establishing partnerships with unique organizations to create recycling programs for hard-to-recycle items (e.g., snack pouches), as outlined in Action SW-2b. Additionally, we will create new policies and programs to collect materials such as hazardous waste materials (Action SW-2i); establish partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community groups or organizations to create pop-up repair cafes for commonly broken and easily repaired items (Action SW-2d); sponsor businesses to host refill pop-ups at community events (Action SW-2h); and partner with schools to reduce single-use foodware, convert necessary single-use plastic foodware to compostable foodware, and educate students on closing the loop (Action SW-2j).

SW-2 Reduce landfilled inorganic waste 35% by 2030 and 90% by 2045.

SW-2a Adopt a Zero Waste Policy and Zero Waste
Strategic Plan to guide and detail methods to meet
the reduction target of 35% by 2030 and 90% by
2045. Include in the Zero Waste Strategic Plan, the
milestones of the Sustainable Foodware Ordinance
to phase in the reduction, and subsequent
elimination of, single-use plastic foodware by food
facilities.
61 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
Not
Quantified
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Landfilled inorganic waste
(% change)
SW-2b Partner with an entity such as Terracycle to create a recycling program at City-owned and operated
buildings and other community-based locations

SW-2c Partner with local businesses, nonprofits, and community groups or organizations to establish pop-up repair cafes for commonly broken and easily repaired items. Additionally, engage local home improvement businesses and partner with the Pinole Library to promote reuse by increasing accessibility to shared tools through a tool lending program. In addition to providing available resources, work with experts in various fields to provide quick reference guidance documents or record short videos that residents can refer to when borrowing specific equipment to learn the most effective ways of using the tools available.

SW-2d Continue the City’s single-use plastic education efforts and integrate the efforts into a citywide education program, ‘Pinole’s Path to Zero Waste,’ to expand outreach and resources about zero waste goals and focus education on specific benefits to the City (e.g., reduction of single-use plastic pollution flowing into Pinole Creek and San Pablo Bay, community savings from reduce and reuse efforts).

SW-2e Partner with community-based organizations such as ReThink Disposables and RecycleMore to engage the Bayfront Chamber of Commerce members and other Pinole businesses to educate the business community about the benefits of reusables and inform them about the new Sustainable Foodware Ordinance.

SW-2f Work with compostable distributors to achieve competitive pricing for compostable foodware to increase compliance with the Sustainable Foodware Ordinance.

SW-2g Sponsor businesses to host refill pop-ups at community events (e.g., Farmers Market) where community members can purchase common household products and food in bulk using their own containers and create a network of local businesses that can provide local, bulk products with zero-waste packaging.

SW-2h Create a Hazardous Waste Material Reuse Program that offers usable household hazardous waste collected at the West Contra Costa County Drive-Through to the community free of charge through a Material ReUse Store. Establish a schedule and location(s) to operate the Material ReUse Store alongside the household hazardous waste collection schedule and promote the store on the City’s website and on the City’s social media platforms. 62 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SW-2b
cont.
to collect hard to reuse/recycle products, such as snack pouches.

SW-2i Partner with public schools to reduce single-use plastic foodware, convert necessary single-use plastic foodware to compostable/reusable foodware, and educate students on closing the loop (i.e., Loop organics).

SW-2j Secure financial grants and assistance from Rethink Disposables, CalRecycle’s City/County Payment Program (CCPP), and others, to support businesses in developing pilot programs for reusable and returnable foodware and drop-off stations, purchasing and installing dishwashers, and overall gaining compliance with the Sustainable Foodware Ordinance. Highlight and support use of new grant funds available for small and minority-owned businesses to participate.

Additionally, seek grant funding to support pop-up repair cafes and a tool lending program.

Solid Waste
Because current best practices for emissions inventories and reduction plans do not consider lifecycle emissions, this measure will not result in direct GHG emissions attributable to the City, however, this measure aligns with the CALGreen requirements for construction and demolition (C&D) diversion. C&D materials consist of approximately 12 percent of California’s current (2021) waste stream and include carpet, wood, aggregate, paint, shingles, and wallboard, as well as other materials that could be generated during site work and clearing processes, such as plastics (e.g., PVC pipes, packaging, etc.), glass, yard waste, and corrugated cardboard from packaging.36 CalGreen mandates locally permitted building construction, demolition, and certain additions and alteration projects recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum 65 percent of the nonhazardous C&D debris (CALGreen sections 4.408, 5.408, 301.1.1 and 301.3).37 To comply with these requirements, the City of Pinole has established a template to be submitted with each building permit that provides a “Construction Waste Management Plan” (CWMP).38 To streamline submittal and compliance with the City’s Municipal Code, there are three options to satisfy the requirements, as outlined in the CWMP, which include submitting a completed CWMP, using a waste management company that certifies a minimum of 65 percent diversion, or a waste stream reduction option that allows for a calculation. Implementation of this measure will help the City and contractors continue to meet the C&D diversion requirements.

SW-3 Meet CalGreen’s current 65% construction and demolition materials diversion requirements on all covered projects.

SW-3a Include in, or amend, the franchise agreement
with the City’s waste hauler to require
construction and demolition (C&D) diversion
requirements with performance disincentives for
non-compliance.
63 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
SW-3b Partner with RecycleMore and the City’s waste
hauler to complete an assessment of projects that
were not compliant with the CalGreen C&D 65%
diversion requirement. Determine an Action Plan
to ensure similar future projects meet the 65%
requirement. Complete ongoing review of projects

36. https://calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/

37. https://calrecycle.ca.gov/lgcentral/library/canddmodel/

38. https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10946972/File/C&D%20Waste%20Management%20Forms%20(Autosaved).pdf Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ C&D diversion rate (%)
Not
Quantified

64 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SW-3b
cont.
collaboratively with RecycleMore to assess projects that are non-compliant and methods to ensure 65% diversion requirements are met.

SW-3c Fully engage and inform permit applicants of the 65% requirements at the very beginning of the planning, building, and inspection process and collaborate with RecycleMore to integrate C&D diversion practices into the City’s permit process.

SW-3d Create and distribute a Contractors Guide to educate contractors on the requirements to meet the program conditions that include pre-permit documentation weight tags, post-permit documentation, and consequences for not meeting minimum diversion requirements.

SW-3e Update C&D information on the City’s website to include a more complete comprehensive list of documents, such as:
• Pre-permit requirements
• Green Halo system requirements
• Locations for C&D materials processing/diversion
• Weight tag requirements
• Post project requirements and signature
• Details regarding consequences for not meeting requirements.

SW-3f Partner with the City’s waste hauler, RecycleMore and other C&D organizations to educate on best practices for meeting CalGreen 65% requirements as part of Program 9 in the Housing Element.

SW-3g Use financial grants and assistance from CalRecycle to fund and provide tools for low- and fixedincome projects to meet requirements.

SW-3h Continue to offer online-waste tracking options for the community through the Green Halo compliance system, or a similar system, which allows for receipts to be verified online, streamlining the processes substantially

Solid Waste
The Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant (WTP) was built in 1955 as a primary treatment facility and has undergone two major expansions and several modifications to meet the growing demands of the community.39 Currently, the WTP treats all the residential and commercial wastewater generated in Hercules and most of the wastewater generated in Pinole, serving a combined population of approximately 40,000, with an average daily flow of 3.5 million gallons. The WTP removes solids and sanitizes the water, then discharges the clean wastewater into the Bay.

Currently, solid materials are pumped into an anaerobic digester where methane gas is generated as well as heat as a byproduct. The methane gas is used to power the on-site cogeneration that provides electricity to the WTP, and the heat is captured and used to heat the digesters. To analyze the potential waste volume and assess facility upgrades needed to complete a pilot Organics to Energy Project, a feasibility study will be conducted to identify potential partners, waste volume, and necessary facility upgrades, as well as cost and GHG emissions reduction potential (Action SW-4a). In tandem with the completion of the feasibility study, the City will partner with an organics to energy company to help assess the feasibility of a pilot (Action SW-4c). This supports California’s goals established in SB 1383 because biosolids are considered in the overall goal of 75 percent diversion and biosolids which are anaerobically digested and/or composted and land applied constitute a reduction in landfill disposal per the California Code of Regulations Section 18983.1(b)(6)(B).40 SW-4 Analyze opportunities to enhance the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant to divert organic waste from the landfill and increase organics recovery.

SW-4a Complete a feasibility study to identify local
partners, analyze the potential waste volume, and
assess facility upgrades needed to complete a pilot
Organics to Energy Project at the WWTP and the
potential cost and GHG emission reduction
impacts of such a project.

SW-4b Conduct case study assessments of other organics
to energy projects at WWTPs to educate City
decision makers, the public, and other interested
parties on the feasibility of the pilot project and
65 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Feasibility study status
Not
Quantified

39. https://www.ci.pinole.ca.us/city_government/public_works/wastewater_treatment_plant

40. https://casetext.com/regulation/california-code-of-regulations/title-14-natural-resources/division-7-department-of-resources-recycling-andrecovery/chapter-12-short-lived-climate-pollutants/article-2-landfill-disposal-and-reductions-in-landfill-disposal/section-189831-landfill-disposal-andrecovery

66 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SW-4b
cont.
collaboratively with RecycleMore to assess projects that are non-compliant and methods to ensure 65% diversion requirements are met.

SW-4c Partner with an organics to energy company to help assess the feasibility of a pilot project for the City and impacted communities.

SW-4d Pursue funding opportunities (e.g.., CalRecyle) and financing alternatives to address capital costs for the pilot project.

Solid Waste
In addition to reducing organic waste generated, beginning in 2022, Senate Bill (SB) 1383 requires jurisdictions annually procure 0.08 tons of compost per capita. Meeting this annual procurement target provides Pinole with an opportunity to reduce GHG emissions, leverage economic development, and foster environmental benefits. Applying compost to City lands (e.g., parks, recreation areas, schools’ landscape, and school gardens) is an effective way to sequester carbon by storing it in the soil rather than releasing it to the atmosphere. Compost also provides additional environmental benefits including improving soil health, increasing water conservation, and providing erosion control—all of which can be important benefits for community parks, institutions, and other natural working lands. Distribution of materials would be accomplished by establishing programs to procure and provide compost for City facilities, community garden organizations (e.g., Pinole Garden Club), and residential and commercial landscapers. Additionally, a program would be established to deliver compost to local schools and community organizations.

As part of this measure, the City will develop an online mapping tool that will be used to identify existing community gardens in Pinole and provide a list of potential underused park space for expansion (Action SW-5h).

SW-5 Establish new programs to meet the City’s SB 1383 annual procurement target (i.e., 1,073 tons of compost) by 2030.

SW-5a Establish a program to procure and provide
compost for:
• The City’s parks, recreation areas, schools’
landscaping, and school gardens (where
possible, identify opportunities to utilize the
online mapping tool included in Action SW-5h
to map out additional locations for application)
• Garden community organizations such as the
Pinole Garden Club
• Residential and commercial landscapers
67 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: 425
2045: 513
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Annual compost
procurement (tons)

Establish a new program to deliver compost to local schools and community organizations.

Expand free compost giveaways to residents, local urban farmers, and other organizations.

Track the success of the program based on tons of compost given away and promote the program on the City’s CAAP website and through the City’s social media channels.

SW-5d Complete a feasibility study in collaboration with RecycleMore to identify cost-effective end uses for organic waste products and methods to distribute the products.

SW-5e Using established education materials from RecycleMore and other organizations, provide outreach and education to community organizations such as the Pinole Garden Club, in addition to Homeowner’s Associations, resident groups, and commercial landscapers in Pinole on the benefits of using organic end products such as compost and mulch.

SW-5f Partner with the City’s waste hauler, or others who own large composting operations in close proximity to the City, to provide organic end product to the community at a cost-effective rate.

SW-5g Use funds from the SB 1383 fee to pay for a portion of organic end use products. Use financial grants and assistance from CalRecycle to fund the purchase of organic end product. Focus effort on lower income projects to participate in program.

SW-5h Establish an online mapping location hosted on a City website to identify existing community gardens and make a list of potential underused park space for expansion, setting internal key performance indicators for an appropriate number of new garden spaces. 68 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SW-5b Amend or otherwise ensure that the Franchise Agreement for the City’s waste hauler will provide organic waste products at reduced cost.

SW-5c

Water
W-1 Reduce per capita potable water consumption 10% by
2030 and 25% by 2045, from 2017 levels.

W-2 Increase the community’s use, supply, and access to recycled water.
69 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Water
Water use generates GHG emissions through the consumption of energy to transport, treat, and distribute water. The interconnection between energy and water is considered the water-energy nexus. Reducing potable water consumption would, therefore, also reduce energy use. Climate change will continue to bring increased patterns of extreme precipitation, followed by drought. This new reality underscores the pressing need for communities to take proactive steps to reduce water consumption. By reducing community water consumption, we can help to preserve and protect this precious resource, establishing long-term availability and sustainability. Moreover, reducing water consumption can also lead to significant cost savings for both residents and businesses alike, as lower utility bills can translate into real monetary savings. Implementation of this measure will be achieved through adopting a Water Conservation and Water Shortage Contingency Program Ordinance to establish drought thresholds that trigger varying water use reduction strategies (Action W-1b). Additionally, we will complete a feasibility study as well as an economic study associated with adopting a Dual Drainage Plumbing Ordinance (Action W-1c). Water conservation fixtures and fittings will continue to be provided at low/reduced/no costs through partnerships with EBMUD, as well as rebates for appliances.

W-1 Reduce per capita potable water consumption 10% by 2030 and 25% by 2045, from 2017 levels.

W-1a Continue to implement and enforce Pinole
Municipal Code Chapter 15.54 (Water Efficient
Landscaping) to encourage use of efficient
irrigation systems, greywater usage, onsite storm
water capture, and limit the portion of landscapes
that can be covered in turf.
70 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
W-1b Adopt a Water Conservation and Water Shortage
Contingency Program Ordinance to establish
drought thresholds that trigger varying water use
reduction strategies. The Ordinance will focus
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Per capita potable water
consumption (% change)
Not
Quantified

W-1e Continue to comply with SB 1087 and Municipal Code Chapter 17.32 (Affordable Housing Requirements) requirements to provide priority water and sewer service allocations to affordable housing developments.

W-1f Continue to partner with East Bay Municipal Utility District’s to provide water conserving fixtures/fittings and rebates for appliances to residents throughout Pinole, with a focus on disadvantaged and vulnerable communities to reduce utility bill burdens. Provide specific updates to the community as new programs are released, such as featuring a new indoor plumbing program to help Customer Assistance Program participants find and fix indoor leaks.

W-1g Implement a comprehensive, coordinated educational initiative focused on property owners, landlords, property management firms, homeowners’ associations, and occupants to reduce water usage in homes and businesses. This campaign will incorporate the water conservation messaging of the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), utilizing various communication channels such as publications, websites, community events, workshops, and bill inserts. It will also provide details on available incentives for water-saving appliances, fittings, fixtures, and efficient landscaping irrigation systems, including those offered by EBMUD. Additionally, the campaign will focus on reaching disadvantaged and vulnerable communities to alleviate the burden of utility bills.

W-1h Partner with EBMUD, the Contra Costa Master Gardeners, and/or Pinole Garden Club to develop community programs to encourage water-wise landscaping and watering practices and to provide a hands-on learning experience such as sheet mulching lawn conversions for members of the community. Include promotion of EBMUD Lawn Conversion rebates.

W-1i Continue to partner with Rising Sun to provide Green House Calls to residents to provide highefficiency fixtures/fittings and leak detection tests. 71 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) W-1b
cont.
primarily on domestic water use, health and sanitation, and fire protection.

W-1c Perform a study to understand the feasibility and potential potable water savings of adopting a Dual Drainage Plumbing Ordinance. The feasibility study will help the City determine the size threshold for future development projects subject to the Ordinance.

W-1j Work with EBMUD to provide existing commercial entities that have decorative or nonfunctional turf onsite with the education and resources necessary to transition to regenerative landscapes with a goal of replacing all existing commercial decorative or non-functional turf by 2030.

W-1d Upon completion of the Feasibility Study in Action W-1c, adopt an appropriate Dual Drainage Plumbing Ordinance.

Water & Wastewater
Increasing recycled water use in the City can increase adaptative capacity while providing environmental and economic benefits. Recycled water can serve as an additional water supply that can be utilized during times of extreme drought or water scarcity. Therefore, as the first step, the City will continue to work with EBMUD to complete a feasibility study to identify opportunities to increase supply of recycled water to the City (Action W-2a). Using recycled water can reduce the environmental impact of upstream water processes when compared to those for “new” water — such as extraction or the energy used to pump and deliver water long distances. When used to replace existing drinking water supplies for non-potable uses (e.g., irrigation and industrial uses), recycled water can lower water utility bills. Additionally, recycled water can be used for groundwater recharge which helps replenish depleted aquifers and plays a crucial role in enhancing water availability during drought periods and mitigating the effects of over-extraction. By injecting treated recycled water into underground aquifers, the natural storage capacity of groundwater is replenished, creating a sustainable and reliable source of water for future generations. These characteristics equate to a dependable and affordable water supply that provides local businesses with an incentive to remain in the City.

W-2 Increase the community’s use, supply, and access to recycled water. 72 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
W-2a Continue to work with EBMUD to complete a
feasibility study to identify opportunities to
increase supply of recycled water to the City. The
feasibility study will:
▪ Analyze opportunities to expand purple piping
infrastructure
▪ Identify opportunities and technologies to
increase recycled water supply
▪ Evaluate potential impacts to cost of service
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Recycled water use (%
change)
Emissions
Reductions
Not
Quantified

W-2c Investigate working with EBMUD to promote the installation of greywater equipment in homes and businesses through a multi-lingual Laundry-to-Landscape outreach campaign. The campaign shall include:
▪ Educational information on the environmental and financial benefits of greywater systems ▪ Information on how to install and use the systems, including information on EMBUD greywater rebates
▪ Distribution of educational materials at the City’s permitting counter ▪ Supplemental event(s) hosted with EBMUD or industry expert to educate community members on the installation and use of the systems, including an existing residential greywater system demonstration
▪ Direct outreach to multi-family property owners.
73 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) W-2a
Cont.
▪ Investigate ways to maintain or decrease costs of service through the project ▪ Identify customers that would benefit from receiving recycled water within City of Pinole such as industrial uses or parks and adjacent to the City, in Hercules or other surrounding jurisdictions, as applicable
W-2b Pursue funding opportunities at the state and federal level, such as the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the US Bureau of Reclamation's WaterSMART grants, to fund recycled water infrastructure and to increase the equitable distribution of recycled water in the City.

W-2d Create and implement a phased outreach campaign to educate the community on the benefits of recycled water as well as dispelling misconceptions to and increase community use.

W-2e Upon completion of the feasibility study to identify opportunities to increase supply of recycled water to the City, work with EBMUD to develop a Recycled Water Infrastructure Enhancement Plan that outlines the potential for system expansion, identifies opportunities, as applicable, to integrate recycled water sources into non-potable water networks for irrigation, and the promotion of educational campaigns that raise awareness on what recycled water is and how it is used.

Carbon Sequestration
CS-1 Increase carbon sequestration and prepare the urban forest for climate change, extreme heat, drought, and
wildfire by adopting policies developed through the
Community Urban Forest Plan.

CS-2 Increase nature-based and technological carbon
sequestration opportunities in Pinole.
74 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Carbon Sequestration
To help sequester GHG emissions in the City and increase resilience to extreme heat events, there are long-term preventative strategies that we can employ such as the strategic planting of trees and vegetation cover. The Community Urban Forest Plan will include an inventory of the existing urban forest as a baseline and identify areas in Pinole that have below average canopy coverage (Action CS1a). Once identified, a phased timeframe will be developed to implement a planting program focused on eliminating significant differences in tree canopy coverage between census blocks. In addition to increasing tree canopy, this measure will also increase and protect biodiversity – which is central to California, as the state contains some of the highest rates of native and endemic species in the world.41, 42 The City of Pinole, along with the rest of North America’s Pacific coast is considered the California Floristic Province hotspot, which contains a wide variety of ecosystems as well as species that evolve and live only in those spaces. In that same vein, pressures from human populations have rendered California one of the four most ecologically degraded states in the United States of America. Therefore, this effort works to preserve the urban forest canopy and continue to provide carbon sequestration value as trees mature. A diverse and resilient ecosystem fosters ecological balance, enhances pollination of crops, provides essential ecosystem services, supports sustainable agriculture, and contributes to the overall stability of ecosystems, ultimately benefiting human health, food security, and the long-term sustainability of our communities.43 CS-1 Increase carbon sequestration and prepare the urban forest for climate change, extreme heat, drought, and wildfire by adopting policies developed through the Community Urban Forest Plan.

CS-1a Develop and adopt a Strategic Tree Plan by 2026
to identify and prioritize tree planting areas in the
City. The Plan will:
▪ Inventory the existing urban forest as a
baseline and identify areas in Pinole that have
below average canopy coverage (such as
census block groups 60133640021,
60133640023, and 60133922004) and high
urban heat island effects.
▪ Design a tree planting program focused on
eliminating significant difference in canopy
coverage between census blocks by 2040.
75 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
Not
Quantified
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Trees planted (#)
▪ Standard deviation in
canopy coverage across
census blocks (#)

41. https://calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/

42. https://calrecycle.ca.gov/lgcentral/library/canddmodel/

43. https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10946972/File/C&D%20Waste%20Management%20Forms%20(Autosaved).pdf

CS-1a
Cont.
▪ Identify a phased timeframe for program implementation. ▪ Establish a management plan for existing trees that will focus on promoting street tree health, enhancing resilience, increasing the environmental benefits and co-benefits from trees, and engaging the community in urban forest management. ▪ Establish a tracking system to assess progress towards annual goals and annual benchmarks.

CS-1b Collaborate with community-based organizations with connections to disadvantaged and vulnerable communities in the development of the Urban Forest Inventory and Management Plan and share the plan on the City’s website.

CS-1c Continue protecting existing trees on private property through the provisions of PMC Chapter

17.96 (Tree Removal) and continue to enforce the Municipal Code Chapter 17.996, which requires either planting on-site replacement trees or paying an in-lieu fee equal to at the value of the protected tree as a condition of approval when a Tree Removal Permit is issued, among other requirements.

CS-1d Prioritize tree planting in areas with populations most at risk to extreme heat impacts (older adults, children, outdoor workers, individuals with disabilities, transit dependent individuals, and individuals with chronic health conditions) pursuant to the Urban Forest Inventory and Management Plan.

CS-1e Review, enhance, update, and regularly maintain the City’s existing “Tree” webpage with relevant information, such as best practices for watering and fertilizing trees, guidelines for pruning and maintenance, information on local tree species, and resources for reporting tree damage or disease. Additionally, provide information on the benefits of a healthy tree canopy, including improved air and water quality, reduced urban heat island effects, and increased property values.

CS-1f Amend the Municipal Code to include street tree requirements for all zoning districts, increase shade tree requirements for new developments, and include increased permeable surface requirements for new development or substantial redevelopment.

CS-1g Continue to pursue and obtain grant funding for tree planting and urban forest management.

Identify and apply for applicable federal (e.g., USDA) and state (e.g., California ReLeaf, Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program (AHSC), Cal Fire’s Urban and Community Forestry Program, and the California Natural Resources Agency’s Urban Greening Program) available grants for tree planting and urban greening projects. 76 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CS-1h Develop a City incentive program for new tree plantings on private properties with a focus on members of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities and in areas where there is belowaverage tree equity or canopy coverage, pursuant to the Urban Forest Inventory and Management Plan.

CS-1i Partner with a local nursery to host regular tree planting events and volunteer opportunities to engage community members in the effort to maintain and expand the local tree canopy.

CS-1j Work with a community non-profit organization to develop an adopt a tree program increase the urban tree canopy in marginalized communities

CS-1k Establish a Tree Trust or Tree Endowment where the interest on the principal can be used for purchasing and planting trees in prioritized areas pursuant to the Urban Forest Inventory and Management Plan, paying for tree maintenance in disadvantaged and vulnerable communities in the City, or supporting staff resources for the Urban Forest Management Program. 77 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Carbon Sequestration
Carbon sequestration is the capturing, removal, and storage of CO2from the Earth’s atmosphere.44 Nature-based carbon sequestration, or biologic carbon sequestration, opportunities include regrowing forests and trees, restoring wetlands, and implementing processes to increase soil health and absorption capacity. Technical carbon sequestration includes direct air capture, a system in which carbon is directly captured from the air using an industrial process.45 Engineered molecules, such as those that could be used in concrete production are another form of technical carbon sequestration that might be viable in the City of Pinole. The City will build off of the work done by the Contra Costa County Resource Conservation District and complete an evaluation of the carbon stock in the City’s existing blue carbon ecosystems (e.g., eelgrass in San Pablo Bay; Action CS-2a).

Additionally, implementation will include establishing partnerships with concrete producers to research opportunities for technological carbon sequestration in Pinole including potential funding mechanisms (Action CS-2b). A multi-lingual, jargon-free educational campaign will be created to support these initiatives and clearly explain the opportunities and benefits of carbon sequestration in the City to confirm community members are informed.

CS-2 Increase nature-based and technological carbon sequestration opportunities in Pinole.

CS-2a Seek funding to conduct a study to quantify the
carbon stock in existing Pinole blue carbon
ecosystems (e.g., eelgrass in San Pablo Bay) and
quantify the carbon sequestration potential of
blue carbon restoration and expansion.

CS-2b Partner with concrete producers to research
opportunities for technological carbon
sequestration in Pinole including potential funding
mechanisms (e.g., Verra’s Methodology for CO2
Utilization in Concrete Production).
78 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Established quantitative
carbon sequestration target
to be achieved by 2045
Not
Quantified

44. https://calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/

45. https://calrecycle.ca.gov/lgcentral/library/canddmodel/

CS-2d Create an educational campaign that informs members of the community about the benefits and methods associated with carbon sequestration and capture that avoids jargon and clearly explains the opportunities and benefits in the City. Confirm that the educational materials are provided in a multi-lingual, culturally considerate manner and distributed specifically to disadvantaged community members.
79 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CS-2c Based on the studies, develop a plan to increase carbon sequestration in Pinole. The plan shall include a quantitative carbon sequestration target to be achieved by 2045 and a process for regular monitoring of carbon stocks.

City Infrastructure &
Operations
CIO-1 Upgrade all City accounts to MCE’s Deep Green option by 2025 and electrify or otherwise decarbonize all
municipal buildings and facilities by 2035.

CIO-2 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 30% of the municipal vehicle fleet by 2026 and 100% by 2040.

CIO-3 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal off-road equipment by 2035, where feasible.

CIO-4 Reduce employee VMT 20% by 2035, from 2019 levels by developing and implementing a municipal
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan by
2028.

CIO-5 Reduce municipal water consumption 15% by 2030,
from 2019 levels.

CIO-6 Reduce organic waste by 10% by 2025, from 2019 levels and landfill zero waste by 2035.

CIO-7 Retrofit existing infrastructure owned and operated by the City, such as the Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution
Control Plant, located in the areas at risk of sea level rise.
80 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

City Infrastructure & Operations
As a leader in climate action and resilience, the City understands the importance of procuring carbon free or 100 percent renewable electricity and prioritizing the electrification and decarbonization of all City buildings to mitigate GHG emissions from the built environment while improving indoor air quality. Therefore, as a first step, an electrification ordinance would be adopted that requires new municipal construction to be fully electric without any natural gas connections. Although the ordinance would apply to new developments, existing municipal buildings and facilities must also be electrified and utilize carbon free and renewable energy. To understand the needs of existing buildings, an audit would be completed that identifies all fossil fuel-powered equipment and then a replacement schedule would be established. This measure would be supported by a City Council resolution to require electrification of all municipal buildings by 2035, ten years ahead of the communitywide goal.

CIO-1 Upgrade all City accounts to MCE’s Deep Green option by 2025 and electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal buildings and facilities by 2035.

CIO-1a Adopt an electrification ordinance in 2024
requiring all new municipal construction to be fully
electric after calendar year 2024 without any
natural gas connections.
81 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Municipal accounts
enrolled in MCE Deep
Green option (%) CIO-1b Complete an analysis to identify the electrical capacity and utility infrastructure upgrades
needed to electrify the recreational pool heating
system at the Swim Center. Pursue replacement
funding through PG&E on-bill financing and
California Energy Commission (CEC) 1% Loans.

CIO-1d Develop a plan to electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal buildings and facilities by 2035 which will include:
▪ An inventory of existing fossil fuel-powered buildings and facility equipment, available electric or zero/low-carbon alternatives for replacing each, and relevant costs and benefits of replacing each (e.g., lifespan, equipment costs, operational quality). ▪ A prioritized schedule for completion based on potential to reduce natural gas and propane usage.
▪ Prioritize upgrades that benefit vulnerable communities first, such as the Library, Senior Center, Youth Center, and Tiny Tots facilities.

CIO-1e Expand efforts to obtain funding for municipal building and facility decarbonization through grants, incentives, or financing provided by entities such as:
▪ DOE Block Grants
▪ Leases: Capital lease, Operating Lease, Tax-Exempt Lease purchase (4-5%) ▪ Loans and Grants: 1% CEC Loan, Dept. of Energy Grants, Federal Grants (IIJA, IRA) ▪ On-Bill Financing
▪ Energy as a Service (EaaS)
▪ Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC, guaranteed energy savings help pay for the project) from Energy Service Companies (ESCOs)
▪ Grant Anticipation Notes or other Short-Term Notes/Loans CIO-1f Upgrade all municipal electricity accounts to MCE Deep Green by 2025.

CIO-1g Plan, fund, and conduct an electrification pilot project at a municipal facility (e.g., the Senior Center). Promote the demonstrated benefits of the fully electric building (e.g., cost-savings, GHG emission reductions) and publicize the planning, design, installation, and post-operation of the project to make the steps to electrification transparent to the community.

CIO-1h Partner with regional organizations such as the Building Decarbonization Coalition to train City staff, community members and volunteers on the benefits and technical requirements of electrification, help them implement the building and facility electrification plan and empower them to be advocates for electrification across the community. 82 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-1c By 2025, adopt a Resolution requiring the implementation of a building and facility electrification plan to electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal buildings by 2035.

City Infrastructure & Operations
The City of Pinole operates a variety of on-road gasoline and diesel-powered fleet vehicles for different uses throughout the City such as code compliance, Public Works inspections, and more traditional service trucks for landscaping, maintenance, and transportation of materials. The California Air Resources Board released the Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) Regulation, which requires that at least 50 percent of vehicle purchases are ZEVs by 2024 and all new purchases are ZEVs by 2027.46 The City currently has a vehicle replacement schedule that will be reviewed and updated biannually. As part of this, the existing charging infrastructure will be analyzed and a Municipal Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan will be prepared to create a prioritized list of City-owned properties/locations to install new Level II and DC Fast chargers, an assessment of future electricity demand and potentially energy-constrained locations, and a pathway to coordinate with PG&E on installing microgrids or back-up power at City-owned properties to support the ZEVs.

CIO-2 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 30% of the municipal vehicle fleet by 2026 and 100% by 2040.

CIO-2a Expand and update the City’s fleet vehicle
replacement schedule to transition 30% of the
municipal vehicle fleet to ZEVs by 2026 and 100%
by 2040. Review the replacement schedule and
ZEV transition goals every 2 years and update
them as needed based on updates to state
regulation and ZEV market availability.
83 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Fleet vehicles decarbonized
(% of total fleet)
CIO-2b Complete a Municipal Electric Vehicle
Infrastructure Plan to analyze the City’s charging
needs through 2026 and 2040. The plan shall
include:

46. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/advanced-clean-fleets-regulation-summary

CIO-2c Secure funding from state programs (such as the California Air Resources Board's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project and the Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program) and federal sources to increase procurement of EV or ZEV cars, trucks, and other vehicles and installation of EV/ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure at municipal facilities. Additionally, explore opportunities for Low Carbon Fuel Standard credit generation from use of low carbon fuels/electricity for fleet vehicles.

CIO-2d Dedicate staff time to implementing, tracking, and updating the City fleet vehicle replacement plan bi-annually.

CIO-2e Partner with an entity such as Contra Costa Transportation Authority, to train City staff on the use and charging of electric and zero-emission vehicles and educate them on the benefits of EVs/ZEVs.

CIO-2f Consider highlighting the City’s EV/ZEV fleet at community events such as Earth Month.

CIO-2g Establish electric vehicle charging infrastructure at and around all City-owned facilities. Apply the profit from community charging towards installing electric vehicle infrastructure in vulnerable communities. Additionally, develop a thoughtful pricing plan that is reviewed and updated annually, or more frequently as appropriate.
84 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-2b
cont.
▪ A prioritized list of City-owned properties/locations to install new Level II and DC Fast chargers
▪ An assessment of future electricity demand and potentially energy-constrained locations ▪ A pathway to coordinate with PG&E on installing microgrids or back-up power at City-owned properties to support the ZEVs

City Infrastructure and Operations
Pinole operates off-road equipment (e.g., lawn and garden equipment as well as other outdoor power equipment) to maintain landscaping, parks, and open space, among other things. In terms of air quality, reducing off-road emissions will be significant. Based on current technologies, operating a lawn mower for one hour generates the same smog-forming pollution (air pollutant) as driving a new light-duty passenger approximately 300 miles, and as mentioned above under Measure TR-6, commercial blower generates the same amount of emissions as driving a new light-duty passenger vehicle approximately 1,000 miles.47 Therefore, CARB adopted emissions standards for Small OffRoad Engines (SORE), which sets a goal to transition off-road vehicles and equipment operations to 100 percent zero-emission by 2035 where feasible. To establish a clear path towards decarbonization, the City will first complete an inventory of all existing off-road equipment and determine which equipment types are possible to decarbonize based on existing technologies, as well as prepare a cost analysis and schedule for decarbonization (Action CIO-3a). As technology advances, there will be additional opportunities to decarbonize larger or more unique pieces of equipment in the future.

CIO-3 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize all municipal off-road equipment by 2035, where feasible.

CIO-3a Complete an inventory of all municipal off-road
equipment every three years and determine which
equipment types are possible to decarbonize
based on existing technologies. Complete a cost
analysis and schedule for decarbonizing.
85 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Off road equipment
decarbonized (%)
CIO-3b Adopt an emissions-free equipment purchasing
policy by 2025 for light-duty vehicles and small
off-road equipment and vehicles to require
purchase and replacement of such categories be
electric or emissions-free. Regularly update the

47. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/sore-small-engine-fact-sheet

CIO-3c Dedicate staff time to implementing and tracking the success of the emissions-free purchasing policy established as part of CIO-3b.

CIO-3d Dedicate staff time and pursue funding opportunities to electrify and otherwise decarbonize municipal off-road equipment through programs such as:
▪ CORE Incentives
▪ Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) incentives including the Carl Moyer Program
CIO-3e Partner with the East Bay Regional Park District to co-lead a multi-lingual educational program for staff and City contractors detailing the benefits of using decarbonized off-road equipment, with an emphasis on improved worker health and details on comparable equipment productivity. Information from the educational program should be summarized into an infographic format and posted at parks, City-owned and operated buildings, and shared in the City’s newsletter to highlight the emissions and overall health benefits in a way that is easily understood.

CIO-3f By 2030, begin procuring biofuels (e.g., biodiesel and biogas) to operate municipally owned offroad equipment with no existing opportunities for electrification. Re-evaluate electrification opportunities regularly to ensure biofuels are not being used for equipment that could otherwise be electrified.
86 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-3b
cont.
policy to include more types of equipment and vehicles as electric and emission-free options become available. Use this to promote all-electric equipment in the community, providing information on the City website outlining available incentives as well as the health benefits, for residents and businesses.

City Infrastructure & Operations
The City will actively work to lead by example and reduce the number of fossil-fueled singleoccupancy-vehicle (SOV) employee commute trips annually. Like Measure TR-3 for the community, emissions reductions from this measure would occur through the development of a municipal TDM Plan, which will be based on input from City staff. As part of the TDM Plan development, the City will create an incentive program to reward City employees for biking, ridesharing, and using public transit to commute to work. Additionally, recognizing that maintaining in-person presence at City Hall and other City offices is important, the occasional ability to work from home allows for a more flexible and adaptive approach. Therefore, this program will also include development of a remote work policy and annual surveys to monitor implementation of the TDM Plan. The TDM Plan will also be available on the City’s website and distributed to local businesses to provide the community with an example of comprehensive TDM plans that focused on GHG emission reductions and equity. Based on a 2021 employee commute survey, most City employees drove alone to and from work, with approximately 25 percent of respondents live within six miles (one way) of City Hall.

CIO-4 Reduce employee VMT 20% by 2035, from 2019 levels by developing and implementing a municipal Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan by 2028.

CIO-4a With employee input, develop a municipal
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan
by 2028 to encourage and incentivize City
employees to reduce their VMT in singleoccupancy and fossil-fuel-powered vehicles.

Update the plan every 2-3 years based on survey
results (e.g., Action CIO-4d) and newly available
public transit and bike routes in the community.
87 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
CIO-4b Create an incentive program to reward City
employees for biking, ridesharing, and using public
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Development of a
Municipal TDM Plan

CIO-4c Investigate the opportunity to create zero-interest loan program to help employees purchase ZEVs for commute.

CIO-4d Develop a remote work policy that encourages municipal office employees to work from home and includes alternative work schedules where feasible.

CIO-4e Explore options for installing showers in existing City-owned facilities and bike lockers along Cityowned streets, where appropriate, to encourage City employees to bike to work and demonstrate the City’s commitment to sustainability and community bicycle safety.

CIO-4f Partner with an entity such as the WestCAT or the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to expand employee use of carbon-free and low carbon transportation by providing education programs on the benefits of commute options including public transportation, EV/ZEV options, and vanpools. Additionally, partner with 511 Contra Costa to help employees find a carpool match and/or develop an internal carpool match policy.

CIO-4g Promote and encourage employee participation in regional and national bike-to-work days/months.

CIO-4h Develop funding sources to support incentives for City employees to commute to work via EV/ZEV options such as free or discounted employee charging at work.

CIO-4i Publish the municipal TDM Plan on the City’s website and distribute to local businesses to provide the community an example of comprehensive TDM plans that focused on GHG emission reductions and equity.

CIO-4j Conduct a survey for City staff commute data annually to monitor emissions, identify potential gaps in planning, and better understand how to elicit employee transportation behavior change.

Include space for employee feedback and identification of barriers to commuting without a personal vehicle.

CIO-4k Dedicate staff time to develop, implement, and update the municipal TDM Plan and conduct the annual survey.
88 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-4b
cont.
transit to commute to work. The program shall provide free public transit passes and free access to electric bicycle programs (where available) to all municipal employees and may include cash incentives or additional paid time-off for employees who bike, rideshare, and use public transit to commute to work.

City Infrastructure & Operations
Reducing municipal water consumption ties directly to reducing energy use through the energywater-nexus. Municipal water is generally used to water City-owned land including parks and medians, as well as in buildings to maintain general operations (e.g., in restrooms and small staff kitchens). Currently, the City uses a small amount of water that results in a fraction of emissions.

However, it is important for us to identify opportunities to lead by example at the City-level and showcase how we can make meaningful, realistic change together. Implementation of this measure will include completion of an indoor and outdoor water audit of all municipal buildings, then development of a schedule to implement identified water efficiency improvements (Action CIO-5a).

An update to the municipal purchasing policy would also be made to require WaterSense labeled fixtures and appliances (Action CIO-5c). Additionally, this measure would include submetering at City owned and operated buildings and facilities to track and monitor water use, including creating a succinct way to internally track specific use and complete repairs or prepare targeted education (Action CIO-5h). Currently, water use is aggregated, making it difficult to understand and implement specific opportunities for improvement.

CIO-5 Reduce municipal water consumption 15% by 2030, from 2019 levels.

CIO-5a Conduct an indoor and outdoor water audit at all municipal buildings and schedule develop a
schedule for water efficiency improvements,
including water fountains, sinks, and other fixtures
that have sensors and turn off automatically when
not in use.
89 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
CIO-5b Adopt a Resolution and assign funding to retrofit or replace all inefficient shower heads, faucets,
washing machines, and toilets with low-flow
fixtures/water-efficient appliances in existing CityKey Performance Indicators:
▪ Per capita potable water
consumption (%)
Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience

90 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-5d Require all non-functional lawns (i.e., grass that is ornamental and not used for recreational purposes) on City-owned property to be removed by 2035 and replaced with native and drought-tolerant landscaping and/or multi-use landscaping (e.g., pollinator-friendly landscapes, edible landscapes).

CIO-5e Identify, track, and actively pursue funding opportunities from entities such as the California Department of Water Resources and the California Environmental Protection Agency.

CIO-5f Partner with the Pinole Community Garden Club, Contra Costa County Master Gardeners, or Bringing Back the Natives to educate City employees and the community on water-wise gardening practices, native plants, and growing food, with a focus on the most vulnerable communities.

CIO-5g Develop and implement a plan to update City-owned properties with improved green stormwater infrastructure (e.g., stormwater systems that direct water towards vegetation, permeable surfaces).

CIO-5h Install submetering at City owned and operated buildings and facilities to track and monitor water use, including creating a succinct way to internally track specific use and complete repairs or prepare targeted education.

CIO-4i Install rain barrels at the Library to water the native garden as a demonstration project to educate the community about the benefits of collecting rainwater and available incentives.

Based on the project’s success, consider installing rain barrels at all City facilities for use in landscaping.

CIO-5b
cont.
owned, managed, or operated facilities, such as, but not limited to, the Pinole Swim Center, Pinole Senior Center, Pinole Youth Center, and Public Service Facilities by 2030. Additionally, identify opportunities for and implement drip irrigation systems and include systems to monitor operations to reduce leaks and unnecessary watering.

CIO-5c Update the municipal purchasing policy to require WaterSense-labeled fixtures and appliances where feasible. This includes continuing to install waterless units such as urinals and sensoractivated sinks.

City Infrastructure and Operations
For the City, organic waste typically includes food, landscape and pruning waste, paper products, and paper. Like all municipal measures, the purpose of this initiative is to demonstrate how the City leads by example and reduces organic waste in line with or beyond the community’s goals. To successfully implement this measure, we must first understand the current bin infrastructure and signage at each municipal facility and event. It has been shown that access and convenience play a big role in helping people make the best decisions. For example, a study out of the University of British Columbia found that moving landfill, recycling, and compost bins closer together resulted in an increase in recycling and composting by 141 percent.48 The colocation of bins as well as adequate signage, which will also be analyzed as part of the audit, will increase proper disposal and reduce organic waste from landfills. Although not a direct reduction of GHG emissions for the City, we will also work with local jurisdictions including surrounding cities and the county to create an inter-office or inter-jurisdiction surplus program where City offices can provide items (e.g., pieces of furniture) for reuse for free to other offices within the City or other jurisdictions. A waste audit would be performed every two years to track the waste sources and identify any gaps in signage or education, as well as opportunities to strengthen the purchasing policy based on current best practice at that time.

CIO-6 Reduce organic waste by 10% by 2025, from 2019 levels and landfill zero waste by 2035.

CIO-6a Require implementation of the Single Use Plastic Ordinance at all City departments, events, and
contracts.
91 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Landfilled organic waste (%
change)
▪ Landfill inorganic waste (%
change)
CIO-6b Provide reusable mugs and foodware items to all
new and existing employees in an effort to
encourage the use of reusable alternatives to
single-use items. Provide information on the
benefits of reusing resources.

48. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/04/170421123255.htm

92 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-6e Work with CalRecycle and similar entities to identify and secure grants that fund waste diversion and educational programs.

CIO-6f Create a shared resource area within each City-owned facility dedicated to lightly used office supplies such as staplers, tape dispensers, pens, and pads of paper, facilitating the reuse of items among staff members and promoting efficiency and reducing waste.

CIO-6g Partner with local jurisdictions including surrounding cities and the county to create an interoffice or inter-jurisdiction surplus program where City offices can provide items (e.g., pieces of furniture) for reuse for free to other offices within the City or other jurisdictions.

CIO-6h Create a buy-nothing group for City staff to share resources and items that they may no longer be interested in or have a use for at their homes.

CIO-5i Perform a waste audit every two years to track waste sources, gaps in signage and education, and opportunities to strengthen the purchasing policy (e.g., based on materials continuing to the landfill or the contaminating recycling and composting streams).

CIO-6c Complete an audit on current bin infrastructure and bin signage in each municipal facility and at City events. Establish a clear plan to install/distribute adequate compost and recycling bins throughout all facilities and to all events, and improve signage so that accepted landfill, recyclable, and compostable materials are clearly identified for each bin.

CIO-6d Partner with an entity such as the City’s franchised waste hauler to provide annual training to City employees on current waste management practices, any modifications to the practices, and proper disposal methods. Empower them to educate the community on the benefits and proper methods of recycling and composting and use this as an opportunity to promote the City’s existing programs, such as the free mulch program, shredding program, household hazardous waste collection, as well as expand programs as appropriate.

City Infrastructure & Operations
As detailed in the Vulnerability Assessment prepared for the City of Pinole’s Safety Element, because the City of Pinole includes approximately 1.5-mile of coastline along the San Pablo Bay, the City is potentially vulnerable to future sea level rise. The Vulnerability Assessment notes that the City of Pinole is projected to experience significant impacts when a total water level increase of 4 - 6 feet, with 4 feet of total water level increase anticipated to result in moderate inundation at the PinoleHercules Water Pollution Control Plant. Additionally, the Vulnerability Assessment notes that although 4 – 6 feet of sea level rise on the upper end of what is projected to occur during the 21st century, it is possible that sea level rise combined with storm surges could contribute to temporary inundation in Pinole. As a specific example, if sea level rose 2 feet, and the community experienced a 100-year storm surge, there could be a total water level of 6 feet. Similarly, if sea level were to rise 4 feet, and the community experienced a 2-year storm event, the water level would similarly reach 6 feet. Therefore, it is important to prepare accordingly and complete a feasibility study to understand the various options related to infrastructure improvements at the Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant to mitigate against sea level rise and flood hazards (Action CIO-7a). Implementation of this measure will occur over the longer-term, as we first understand the opportunities and then begin to work together, identify funding, and complete the necessary upgrades to the system to protect it in the long-term.

CIO-7 Retrofit existing infrastructure owned and operated by the City, such as the Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant, located in the areas at risk of sea level rise.

CIO-7a Complete a feasibility study to evaluate various options for infrastructure improvements of PinoleHercules Water Pollution Control Plant to mitigate against sea level rise and flood hazards. Develop a
long-term management plan to address impacts of
sea level rise, which incorporates any potential
maintenance, relocation, or retrofits and structural
changes to accommodate changes in sea level.
93 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Feasibility study status
CIO-7b Collaborate with the San Francisco Bay Regional
Water Quality Control Board to increase the
Pinole-Hercules Water Pollution Control Plant’s

CIO-7c Provide alternate routes and ensure redundancy of critical transportation routes, as possible, to allow for continued access and movement to and along the coast in instances in which sections of roadways may become temporarily impassible because of shoreline hazards. Additionally, inform City staff, residents, and visitors about alternate routes to shoreline areas.

CIO-7d Host working groups with community-based organizations, experts in the field, and interested parties to identify and prioritize vulnerable communities, involve them in decision-making, use community benefits agreements, prioritize underserved communities, and consider the financial impact on residents.

CIO-7e Identify and apply for a grant funding source to fund facility upgrades, relocation, or additional analysis through entities such as the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, California Coastal Commission, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), or Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

CIO-7f Conduct a detailed and City-specific groundwater emergence threat assessment, factoring in local geomorphology and groundwater data, for use in future planning and analysis.

CIO-7g Incorporate policy guidance and model ordinance language in Citywide plans, policies, and regulations to prioritize strategies that reduce potential impacts due to sea level rise and shoreline hazards and increase the resilience of the City’s shoreline areas. 94 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CIO-7b
cont.
resilience to sea level rise and stronger storms. For example, implement a trigger-based Coastal Hazard Monitoring Program, which would allow to implement improvements or relocate in a timely manner, and conduct feasibility studies from technical experts, retrofitting, relocating, or eliminating outfalls deemed “at risk.”

City Governance
CG-1 Build staffing capacity to effectively implement the CAAP measures and update the CAAP triennially.

CG-2 Establish reporting procedures to implement the CAAP measures and transparently communicate progress to
the community.
95 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

City Governance
One of the first steps in establishing a culture of sustainability is building internal capacity and clearly establishing a foundation of responsibilities to consistently implement identified initiatives. This requires identifying and empowering key team members who are excited to drive sustainability initiatives forward, then providing them with the resources, training, and support needed to lead and implement the strategies effectively and efficiently. By building internal capacity, we will create a coordinated approach to sustainability that is integrated into all aspects of the City’s operations. This structure not only helps to support the long-term success of the Plan, but also fosters a culture that inspires and empowers employees at all levels of the organization to contribute to climate-related efforts. Through ongoing monitoring and adaptive management, we can periodically refine and improve the initiatives included in this plan, so that they remain effective and impactful over time and any new technology, or best practices are implemented, where and when appropriate.

CG-1 Build staffing capacity to effectively implement the CAAP measures and update the CAAP triennially.

CG-1a Create a new full-time staff position in the
Community Development Department (such as a
Sustainability Manager or Coordinator) to oversee
CAAP implementation, monitoring, and reporting
in addition to cross-department collaboration.
96 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
CG-1b Identify a Climate Coordinator from each of the
City’s main departments and divisions. The
Climate Coordinators will meet quarterly for
sustainability peer-to-peer information sharing
sessions to discuss challenges, brainstorm
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ New full-time positions (#)
▪ Climate Coordinators
identified (% of
departments)
▪ Annual survey responses (#)

CG-1b
cont.
solutions, and track progress towards reaching the City’s CAAP key performance indicators. This team will serve as the key organizers for cross-departmental collaboration needed to implement climate goals, as well as community contacts and key researchers for emerging technologies and best practices in climate action.

CG-1d Include a description of Pinole’s climate goals and values in job postings, improving talent acquisition and potentially boosting retention and worker morale.

CG-1e Apply for and fund climate staffing assistance through fellowship/internship programs including the Climate Corps Fellowship, California Pacific University, and CivicSpark to increase internal staff capacity for CAAP implementation and bring in innovative ideas.

CG-1f Earmark funding for CAAP updates.
97 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CG-1c Conduct an annual staff survey to determine the following:
▪ Existing staff interest in leading climate initiatives to identify internal champions. ▪ Staff capacity to implement CAAP actions, monitor progress, and report updates; and associated capacity gaps to fill.

City Governance
Assessing, tracking, and publishing regular progress reports increases transparency and progress towards implementing the initiatives outlined in the CAAP. By doing so, it not only enhances clarity but also generates a sense of importance and urgency in achieving the goals. This measure acts as a bridge between the community and City staff, fostering a stronger connection and a sense of shared responsibility for our sustainable future. To effectively implement this measure, the City will join the Institute for Local Government’s Beacon Program to support transparent reporting through access to technical assistance, regional networking and education opportunities, and opportunities to recognize Pinole’s climate action achievements (Action CR-1a). Additionally, as part of this initiative, we will complete a community emissions inventory every two years and report progress on the measures annually to provide transparent project updates. Educational and informational materials will be translated to non-English languages (Action CR-2f) to provide consistent and equitable information.

CG-2 Establish reporting procedures to implement the CAAP measures and transparently communicate progress to the community.

CG-2a Join the Institute for Local Government’s Beacon
Program to support transparent CAAP reporting
through access to technical assistance, regional
networking and education opportunities, and
opportunities to recognize Pinole’s climate action
achievements.

CG-2b Conduct a communitywide GHG inventory every
two years and a municipal GHG inventory every
five years.
98 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Completion and reporting
of communitywide
inventories (2 years) and
municipal GHG inventories
(5 years)
▪

CG-2d Regularly update Pinole’s CAAP webpage, Sustainability webpages (e.g., Community Choice Energy, EV Charging Stations, Single Use Plastic Reduction), and applicable Public Works webpages (e.g., Water, Garbage and Recycling, Trees) to provide up-to-date information on ordinance, program, and policies as they are updated through CAAP implementation.

CG-2e Explore and track the success of different ways to communicate climate progress transparently to the public (e.g., a dashboard, semi-regular social media posts, City webpages, Pinole TV).

Track the number of clicks made on specific links to identify the most successful mechanisms for engagement.

CG-2f Translate key climate outreach materials into non-English languages. Explore partnerships through nonprofits and other organizations that can assist in translation of key materials.

CG-2g Communicate Pinole’s climate and green economic development commitments through City branding and communications (beyond dedicated webpages and resources) and utilize existing City meetings and events to emphasize the importance of climate action and bring it into regular City and community discussions.

CG-2h Earmark annual funding for the CAAP update in the budget to demonstrate commitment to implementation and monitoring and to provide a consistent conduit of funding. 99 City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CG-2c Report communitywide GHG emissions and progress on Mitigation Measures annually through public reporting tools (e.g., CAPDash) and utilize social media to post updates and results so the community can easily stay up to date.

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100
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

A d a p t a t i o n
“A coordinated campaign is
important, too, to show actions,
completion status, and results. This
should not be a “one-off,” or
something siloed off from other
city business; this mindset must be
integrated into all city decision
making and listened to and
committed to…”
– Pinole Community Member

Climate Vulnerability and
Adaptation Overview
Climate change is a global phenomenon that
impacts local health, natural and cultural
resources, infrastructure, emergency
response, and many other aspects of society.

Projected changes to the climate are
dependent on location. As a part of Pinole’s
2022-24 update of the General Plan’s Safety
Element, a Vulnerability Assessment was
conducted to evaluate the potential impacts
of climate change on community critical
facilities (such as government facilities,
hospitals and medical centers, police and fire
stations, schools, wastewater treatment
facility and transportation infrastructure) and
populations. Vulnerabilities identified for
Pinole were determined based on the
exposure of people and critical facilities to
different natural hazards and the community’s
102
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Key Climate Adaptation Terms
Adaptive Capacity
The ability for a community to cope with and adjust to the impacts of climate change. Actions such as setting up cooling centers and retrofitting buildings to include air conditioning increase adaptive capacity to extreme heat Climate Hazard
A potential occurrence of climate related physical events or trends that may cause damage and loss. Climate hazards in Pinole include extreme heat, drought, flood, and landslides
Vulnerability
The propensity or predisposition to be adversely affected. Aging can change the body’s ability to respond to heat, which makes older adults more vulnerable to heat illnesses during extreme heat events
adaptive capacity, or ability to cope with
and adjust to the impacts of climate
change. The gaps identified between
projected climate change impacts and
adaptive capacity are the community’s
major vulnerabilities. The Vulnerability
Assessment prepared for the Safety
Element Update serves as a foundation for
the climate adaptation strategies and
actions included in the CAAP.

103
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Assessing Climate
Vulnerability in Pinole
Scoring vulnerabilities helps to prioritize
strategies and actions for adaptation.

Vulnerability scores were determined as
part of the Vulnerability Assessment based
on a qualitative methodology outlined in
the California Adaptation Planning Guide.

The vulnerability score is a combination of
potential impact from a climate hazard and
adaptive capacity. These scores were used
to identify which critical facilities and
populations face the highest threat to
climate hazards. Figure 12 shows how
vulnerability is scored using potential
impact and adaptive capacity.

Impact scores were based on data from
climate models, state and Federal guidance
reports, and local documentation. Pinolespecific data from Cal-Adapt were used to project changes to temperature,
precipitation, and wildfire. Sea level rise
projections were created with Pinolespecific data from California Coastal Commission’s 2018 Sea Level Rise Policy
Guidance and the National Oceanic and
Atmosphere Administration’s 2022 Sea
Level Rise Technical Report.

The following section summarizes
projected changes to climate hazards and
key vulnerabilities to populations and
critical facilities in Pinole.

Climate Change Impacts in
Pinole
Figure 13 on the following page illustrates
the projected changes and potential
impacts of the key climate hazards of
concern in Pinole: extreme heat, drought,
flood, landslide, wildfire, and sea level rise.

Figure 12 Vulnerability Score Matrix
“I am concerned about climate
impacts of energy consumption. I
have taken steps to reduce the
impact of my consumption by
upgrading my furnace and water
heater.”
– Pinole Community Member

Figure 13 Projected Changes and Potential Impacts of these Climate Hazards 104
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Adaptation Measures
In addition to mitigating the impacts of
climate change through increased GHG
reduction efforts, the community recognizes
that adapting to potential impacts outlined
above from the changing climate, is an
essential component of climate action and
adaptation planning. Climate impacts will have
disproportionate effects on community
members and increasing community resilience
in Pinole will require implementing targeted
adaptation actions that focus on protecting
those who face the greatest impacts. Table 9
includes climate adaptation strategies and
measures aimed at each of the identified
climate impacts and are designed to increase
community resilience in Pinole.
105
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Measure ID Measure Text
Strategy CAR: Community Adaptation and Resilience
Measure CAR-1 Establish a reliable and dependable resilience center in the City to provide relief from extreme weather events, including extreme heat, flooding, and smoke from wildfires.

Measure CAR-2 Provide streamlined communication to the public on climate adaptation preparedness, resilience, and evacuation.

Measure CAR-3 Create an innovative Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to improve Citywide disaster preparedness, plan collaboratively, increase resilience, protect infrastructure and assets, and access available funding.

Strategy FL: Flood Control
Measure FL-1 Improve the quality of and reduce the quantity of stormwater runoff through a variety of natural and built infrastructure projects.

Strategy SLR: Sea Level Rise
Measure SLR-1 Create, restore, and protect natural coastal ecosystems.

Strategy EH: Extreme Heat
Measure EH-1 Reduce the impacts of extreme heat in Pinole by installing green/cool roofs and cool pavement, as well as planting vegetation and trees to reduce urban temperatures and the urban heat island effect.

Measure EH-2 Map out and create a mural or set of murals using reflective paint to reduce interior heat in areas of Pinole that are most impacted by the urban heat island effect by 2026.

Strategy WF: Wildfire
Measure WF-1 Enforce defensible space and home hardening standards to mitigate structure ignitions from wind blow embers
Table 9 Adaptation Strategies and Measures
Plantable Seed Pin

Community Adaptation
& Resilience
CAR-1 Establish a reliable and dependable resilience center in the City to provide relief from extreme weather events, including extreme heat, flooding, and smoke from
wildfires.

CAR-2 Provide streamlined communication to the public on climate adaptation preparedness, resilience, and
evacuation.

CAR-3 Create an innovative Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to improve Citywide disaster preparedness, plan
collaboratively, increase resilience, protect infrastructure and assets, and access available funding.
106
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Community Adaptation & Resilience
Per City guidelines, the City’s established Senior Center will be opened as a cooling center if the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that Pinole will experience two consecutive days with high temperatures of 95 degrees or more to provide relief to community members.49 Although the City has a centralized space for people to utilize during extreme heat events that offers air conditioning during traditional business hours, there are limitations. Establishing a comprehensive resilience center, which provides essential resources such as health programs, food, refrigeration, charging stations, basic medical supplies, and other emergency supplies, would provide relief to the community from more than just extreme heat, and include safe spaces during flooding and wildfire events, for example. This center would also support social connectedness and community climate solutions through year-round programming and be used by the City to host regular in-person events that educate the community on preparedness. As the first step in developing a more comprehensive facility, the City will conduct an assessment on the current operations as well as existing facilities that could serve as upgraded resilience centers. This would include conducting an audit on the existing heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems at City owned facilities and replacing them on a quarterly basis. To meet the needs of the most vulnerable populations in an emergency, we will partner with WestCAT to establish a list of vulnerable community members and a program to transport them to the established resilience center(s) once available.

CAR-1 Establish a reliable and dependable resilience center in the City to provide relief from extreme weather events, including extreme heat, flooding, and smoke from wildfires.

CAR-1a Conduct an assessment on the effectiveness of
current City resilience center operations. Conduct
a study regarding the feasibility of additional
community locations (e.g., Pinole Youth Center
and Pinole Library) that could serve as resilience
centers by evaluating current amenities and
resources available. As part of the studies, verify
that the needs of vulnerable populations are met
during climate hazard events and host focus
groups with selected community-based
organizations and other interested parties to
identify needs for their service population.
107
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A

49. https://www.ci.pinole.ca.us/city_government/senior_center Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Number of resilience
centers established
▪ Number of people who use
the resilience centers in an
emergency

CAR-1d Work with WestCAT to establish a list of vulnerable community members (e.g., older adults, who may not be able to access a vehicle or public transportation during a heat wave), as well as a program to transport them to established resilience centers.

CAR-1e Partner with local public or private entities to establish resilience centers at privately owned facilities in the City.

CAR-1f Provide essential resources such as food, refrigeration, charging stations, basic medical supplies, and other emergency supplies at all City resilience centers, as well as educational materials on resources and climate adaptation and preparedness. Audit and refresh supplies on a biannual basis, including information on any new or updated programs or resilience center locations. 108
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CAR-1b Identify and apply for funding opportunities that support development of a resilience center, and/or staff positions to maintain the center, such as the Office of Planning and Research Regional Resilience Grant Program.

CAR-1c Utilizing the City’s “Energy Conservation, Generation, and Storage Assessment” conducted in 2024, establish an upgrade and maintenance cycle, including replacement of filters with at least a MERV 11 rating on a quarterly basis for all existing HVAC systems in City owned buildings.

Community Adaptation & Resilience
Streamlined communication, meaning efficient and direct flow of information without unnecessary complexity or delays, during emergencies is crucial as it assures timely and accurate information reaches the community, enabling swift decision-making and coordinated responses. Clear, accessibly, multi-lingual communication not only helps reduce potential panic but also empowers residents with the knowledge needed to take appropriate actions, fostering a sense of trust, community resilience, and collective preparedness in the face of unexpected challenges. Initially, the City will review and update the Emergency Information webpage to reflect ways to prepare for events that may be likely to increase due to climate change, including wildfires, floods, extreme precipitation, extreme heat, poor air quality, and drought, as well as heat-related illness, exacerbate mental stress, and respiratory diseases (Action CAR-2a). As part of Action CAR-2g, the City will work with Pinole Community Television to broadcast multi-lingual consistent, clear, and reliable information to the community and Action CAR-2h aims to create evacuation procedures for vulnerable populations in partnership with community-based organizations and facilities that serve identified populations.

CAR-2 Provide streamlined communication to the public on climate adaptation preparedness, resilience, and evacuation.

CAR-2a Review and update the City’s Emergency
Information webpage to reflect ways to prepare
for events that may be likely to increase due to
climate change, including wildfires, floods,
extreme precipitation, extreme heat, poor air
quality, and drought, as well as heat-related
illness, exacerbate mental stress, and respiratory
diseases
109
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Number of emergency
alerts sent
▪ Working group established
CAR-2b Assess current City capacity to shelter displaced residents including facilities, infrastructure,

CAR-2d Require that all emergency preparedness and evacuation communications are provided in plain language and translated into Spanish, Tagalog, and Cantonese to support non or limited English speakers. Increase participation in emergency notification systems including the Community Warning System and PG&E Community Wildfire Safety Program through social media campaigns and physical flyer distribution.

CAR-2e Provide administrative support and dedicate staff time for grant writing and funding tracking for climate adaptation and resilience projects, including opportunities to increase and enhance communication such as preparation of interactive websites and information sharing resources.

CAR-2f Identify critical facilities in need of reliable sources of sustained electrical power during events of extreme climate. Assess power loads at each critical facility, determine costs and technology options for battery storage, and make any additional recommendations to the City Council prior to advancing construction.

CAR-2g Utilize Pinole Community Television (PCTV) to provide consistent information to community members about adaptation preparedness by providing multi-lingual information that is accessible for people including seniors, individuals with disabilities, children, and caregivers. 110
CAR-2h Create evacuation procedures for vulnerable populations in partnership with community-based organizations and facilities that serve identified populations. Host and/or participate in in-person engagement and incorporate games/activities to educate the community on preparedness.

City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CAR-2b
cont.
services, and community programs during an extreme weather event.

CAR-2c Partner with community-based organizations to establish a working group to develop designated temporary housing options for wildfire displaced residents to live in for up to two years after their home is destroyed or severely damaged.

CAR-2i Require that the City’s resilience centers have adequate backup power sources and battery storage to mitigate service disruptions and provide redundancy in the event of a power outage.

Flood Control
FC-1 Improve the quality of and reduce the quantity of
stormwater runoff through Implementation of the
Pinole Green Infrastructure Plan.
111
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Flood Control
The City of Pinole adopted a Green Infrastructure Plan in 2019 as required by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board for the San Francisco Bay Region’s (RWQCB’s) Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit (MRP). Green Infrastructure is defined in the plan as the construction and retrofit of storm drainage to reduce runoff volumes, disperse runoff to vegetated areas, harvest and use runoff where feasible, promote infiltration and evapotranspiration, and use bioretention and other natural systems to detain and treat runoff before it reaches the City’s creeks and Bay. The Green Infrastructure Plan outlines a pathway to shift from traditional stormwater infrastructure to more resilient, sustainable stormwater management techniques. Implementation of this measure would include preparing a feasibility study to investigate potential infrastructure improvements to relocate critical City infrastructure from the 100-year flood zone. Additionally, the City will implement the stormwater and drainage projects identified in the City Capital Improvement Plan, to mitigate localized flooding incidents and complete the Storm Drainage Master Plan to thoroughly investigate deficiencies in the existing storm drain system and prioritize infrastructure improvements. After any flooding incidents, the City will provide inspections for residents and business owners upon request and provide post-disaster home repair and technical assistance for vulnerable communities.

FC- 1 Improve the quality of and reduce the quantity of stormwater runoff through Implementation of the Pinole Green Infrastructure Plan.

FC-1a Prepare a feasibility study to investigate potential infrastructure improvements to relocate critical
City infrastructure, such as the Senior Center,
Pinole Police Department, and Tiny Tots, from the
100-year flood zone. The feasibility study would
include:
• Identifying potential alternative locations for
the City’s critical infrastructure that’s located in
the 100-year flood zone.
• Preliminary design and construction of new
buildings or facilities.
112
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Feasibility study status

FC-1a
Cont.
▪ Analysis of costs associated with relocating facilities as well as the potential costs of doing nothing.
▪ Outreach to community members and other interested parties to confirm that the relocation aligns with the community’s needs.
113
FC-1c Encourage landlords to consider how to prepare their properties for flooding by providing retrofit informational resources and educational materials on prioritizing low-impact stormwater best practices.

FC-1d Create educational campaigns that connect with vulnerable populations to increase awareness and knowledge of how to mitigate and weather flooding.

FC-1e Identify and apply for grant opportunities to fund stormwater related projects from sources such as the State Water Resources Control Board, California Natural Resources Agency, the Coastal Conservancy, California Water Foundation, as well as the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Department of Agriculture.

FC-1f Review existing best practice and conduct studies of combined riverine/ shoreline flooding and increased severity of rainfall events on watershed flooding.

FC-1g Complete the Storm Drainage Master Plan as identified in the Capital Improvement Plan to thoroughly investigate deficiencies in the existing storm drain system and prioritize infrastructure improvements.

FC-1h Implement stormwater and drainage projects identified in the City Capital Improvement Plan, to mitigate localized flooding incidents.

FC-1i Conduct post-flood inspections for residents and business owners upon request and provide post-disaster home repair and technical assistance for vulnerable communities.

City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) FC-1b Continue participation in the Contra Costa County Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan update; identify flood mitigation actions eligible for grant funding through FEMA hazard mitigation assistance programs.

Sea Level Rise
SLR-1 Create, restore, and protect natural coastal ecosystems. 114
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Sea Level Rise
Pinole occupies a unique location on the San Francisco Bay which has been long neglected and is susceptible to coastal erosion and other impacts related to climate change. However, coastal and estuarine50 ecosystems have the capacity to deliver a wide range of goods and services, many of which provide material benefits such as food supply, regulation of water-quality processes, storm protection, and carbon storage.51 To truly protect the natural coastal ecosystem, a shoreline stabilization study will be conducted to determine the most effective methods for protecting Pinole’s communities and infrastructure from erosion and sea level rise, and to identify opportunities for restoring natural habitats that can serve as a buffer against storm surges and other impacts of climate change (Action SLR-2a). We recognize how crucial it is to provide early and ongoing education about the benefits of our surrounding ecosystems. Therefore, as part of Action SLR-2g, the City will create a partnership to establish a Shoreline Ecosystem Education and Innovation Program that will focus on educating youth in Pinole on the importance of natural ecosystems, their role in climate resilience, biodiversity, and local, native species, and also provide hands-on volunteering opportunities for the community.

SLR- 1 Create, restore, and protect natural shoreline ecosystems.

SLR-1a Conduct a shoreline stabilization study to
determine the most effective methods for
protecting Pinole’s shoreline communities and
infrastructure from erosion and sea level rise, and
to identify opportunities for restoring natural
coastal habitats that can serve as a buffer against
storm surges and other impacts of climate change.

The study would involve the following:
▪ Assessing the physical characteristics of the
shoreline
115
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A

50. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/estuarine

51. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/coastalecosystem#:~:text=Coastal%20and%20estuarine%20ecosystems%20deliver,storm%20protection%2C%20and%20carbon%20storage.

Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Shoreline Stabilization
Study Status

SLR-1b In collaboration with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development and state agencies, develop a sea level rise resilience and adaptation strategy with shoreline restoration projects using innovative nature-based solutions and green engineering that would enhance public access, shoreline habitat (e.g., re-establishing native dune habitats, wetlands, and lagoons) and increase shoreline recreational opportunities. 116
SLR-1c Partner with the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), and/or similar entities, regarding regional approaches, strategies, and mitigation actions to address sea level rise. Implement a Shoreline Management Plan, and/or a Shoreline Monitoring Program that would identify erosional hotspots and timely response.

SLR-1d Establish annual budgets for projects within and benefiting vulnerable populations (2016, Assembly Bill 1550), including seniors, individuals with disabilities, children, low-income communities, and communities in low-lying areas.

SLR-1e Research external funding opportunities, including grants to support shoreline resilience, shoreline restoration projects, or beach nourishment (e.g., Living Shoreline and Nature -based solution projects). Examples of grantee agencies are California Coastal Conservancy, California Coastal Commission, California Ocean Protection Council, NOAA, California Division of Boating and Waterways).

SLR-1f Identify replacement opportunities or otherwise plan for how to replace recreational areas and accessways that will be lost due to inundation or damage associated with sea level rise. Consider either the designation and zonation of lands into a Local Coastal Program or providing additional incentives to encourage creation of new recreation areas or opportunities. Additionally, plan for future shoreline recreational space and parkland by protecting open space adjacent to shoreline habitats, allowing the beach and habitats to migrate into these spaces.

SLR-1g Partner with West Contra Costa Unified School District, private schools in Pinole, East Bay Parks, East Bay Municipal Utility District, Friends of Pinole Creek Watershed, 350 Contra Costa, or similar entities to create educational opportunities for the community around the Pinole Creek Watershed. These programs would focus on educating youth in Pinole on the importance of natural shoreline ecosystems, their role in climate resilience, biodiversity, and local, native species. The programs would also include information on how people can actively get involved in adapting to climate change in their homes and neighborhoods and provide hands-on volunteer opportunities for the community to participate.

City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) SLR-1a
cont.
▪ Evaluating the potential risks and benefits of different stabilization techniques ▪ Engaging with local community members and other interested parties to ensure that the chosen strategies align with community needs and values. ▪ Prioritizing options that enhance and maximize coastal resources and access including considering innovative nature-based solution approaches.

SLR-1h Increase the City’s near and long-term capacity building to be able to develop and implement thoughtful shoreline resilience projects by creating a position for and hiring a shoreline resilience expert. The specific title may vary depending on the individual's background and the focus of their work within the broader context of climate change and sea level rise.

Extreme Heat
EH-1 Reduce the impacts of extreme heat in Pinole by
installing green/cool roofs and cool pavement, as well as planting vegetation and trees to reduce urban
temperatures and the urban heat island effect.

EH-2 Map out and create a mural or set of murals using
reflective paint to reduce interior heat in areas of Pinole that are most impacted by the urban heat island effect
by 2026.
117
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Extreme Heat
Green roofs, or rooftop gardens, are a vegetative layer grown on a rooftop that provides shade and removes heat from the air to reduce roof surface temperatures and thereby the surrounding area.

Based on previous analysis on green roofs, temperatures can be 30–40°F lower than those of conventional roofs and can reduce city-wide ambient temperatures by up to 5°F.52 Given the anticipated increase in temperature by mid- and end-of-century, a 5°F reduction in ambient temperature could make a significant positive impact. In addition to outdoor temperatures, green roofs can also reduce building energy costs compared to conventional roofs. Similarly, a cool roof, which includes either painted or un-painted options that have high-solar reflectivity and are designed to reflect more sunlight than a conventional roof, absorbing less solar energy. 53 Cool
pavement options also include a range of established and emerging technologies that reflect more solar energy, enhance water evaporation, or have been otherwise modified to remain cooler than conventional pavements. This measure will be facilitated through partnership with the West Contra Costa School District and private schools in the City to create a map of the campuses and develop a plan to reduce urban heat islands in schools and adjacent areas. Implementation will also include auditing existing bus stops and creating a prioritized plan for shelter upgrades based on existing operations. As mentioned under the summary for Measure CS-1, California has an incredibly diverse ecosystem, which is reflected in the City. By identifying trees, grasses, and shrubs with the greatest cooling benefits and maximum biodiversity potential, multiple benefits would be achieved.

EH-1 Reduce the impacts of extreme heat in Pinole by installing green/cool roofs and cool pavement, as well as planting vegetation and trees to reduce urban temperatures and the urban heat island effect.

EH-1a Partner with the West Contra Costa Unified School District and private schools in the City to map out
each campus in Pinole to understand the current
infrastructure and then develop a plan to reduce
the heat islands in Pinole’s schools and adjacent
areas, including on walking routes by plant trees
or increasing shade structures as appropriate.

EH-1b Establish a tree removal replacement policy where trees that are removed are replaced with shade
trees that are adapted to the area.
118
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Cool roofs installed (# and
sf)
▪ Green roofs installed (# and
sf)

52. https://www.epa.gov/heatislands/using-green-roofs-reduce-heat-islands

53. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/cool-roofs#:~:text=A%20cool%20roof%20is%20designed,cool%20on%20a%20sunny%20day.

In collaboration with Contra Costa Health Services, establish local early heat warning system that provides public health alerts in Spanish, Tagalog, and Cantonese. 119
EH-1d Complete an assessment that evaluates new cool pavement technology, cost/benefits, and challenges and opportunities. Upon completion of the study, conduct a pilot of cool pavement application at a centralized area in Pinole that is most impacted by extreme heat to demonstrate success of the program.

EH-1f Identify trees, grasses, and shrubs with greatest cooling benefits and maximum biodiversity potential and plant them in prioritized open spaces.

EH-1g Identify grant funding opportunities and engage with local nurseries (e.g., Oaktown, Watershed Nursery, and Native Here) and tree planting programs to identify appropriate and cost-effective California native plants/trees that can be both planted in the ground or remain potted by residents living in rental/multi-family homes.

EH-1h Amend the Building Code to require cool roofs for all new construction.

EH-1i Partner with emergency management services to establish backup power and energy grid shutdown protocols that protect the most vulnerable populations (e.g., seniors, individuals with chronic health conditions, children, individuals with disabilities).

EH-1j Identify opportunities to apply compost as mulch at City open spaces to improve water-holding capacity and filtration to combat extreme heat.

EH-1k Identify a location in the City to establish a “Community Corner” redevelopment project as a model design project to reduce urban temperatures. Incorporate trees, grasses, and shrubs with the greatest cooling benefits into the project, utilize compost in the project’s landscaping, and incorporate cool pavement technology, cool roofs, and shade structures where applicable.

Further consider incorporating a rain garden and resilience center resources into the redevelopment project and publicize all resilient design elements through signage on the property and community tours.

EH-1l Support development of community-serving microgrids and prioritize areas with high social vulnerability.

City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) EH-1c
EH-1e Partner with WestCAT to audit existing bus stops in the City of Pinole with information detailing the current structures around the transit stops. Create a prioritization list of stops with low shading scores. Identify opportunities to add, replace, or upgrade existing transit stop shelters to provide increased shade for the transit riders and work with WestCAT to implement the identified opportunities.

Extreme Heat
Community murals are brightening and revitalizing communities nationwide in more ways than one by going beyond artwork and acting as economic development tools. According to the Americans for the Arts, a leading nonprofit for advancing the arts, arts drive tourism, support local merchants, and represents a growing portion of the gross domestic product.54 Reflective mural have been measured to reduce the surface temperature of buildings by approximately 30 percent.55 To initiate this exciting and innovative project, the City will create a digital map showing neighborhoods where it is the hottest and identify a location or locations to pilot an urban heat mural project (Action EH2a). To measure indoor temperature, and ultimately, how productive the murals are at reducing indoor temperatures, sensors would be installed in the identified locations prior to completing the mural and be used to continue to track data after the murals are installed (Action EH-2d). Upon completion of the murals, the City would host community unveiling ceremonies that celebrate the project and provide updates on the CAAP implementation, as well as resources such as relevant incentives and rebates.

EH-2 Map out and create a mural or set of murals using reflective paint to reduce interior heat in areas of Pinole that are most impacted by the urban heat island effect by 2026.

EH-2a Partner with NASA, or a similar organization to
create a digital map of the City showing
neighborhoods where it is the hottest and identify
locations to pilot an urban heat mural project.

EH-2b Post the map on the City’s website and host
community feedback sessions to update the
analysis included in the map based on real lived
experiences. Additionally, post mural design
concepts that are created as part of Action EH-2c
to foster a sense of ownership over the project.
120
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Murals Complete (#)
▪ Temperature change
between pre- and postproject

54. https://uca.edu/cced/2016/07/05/community-murals-as-economic-development-tools/

55. https://www.pacoimabeautiful.org/programs/beat-heat-mural

121
EH-2c Create a partnership with Contra Costa College, Pinole Artisans, West Contra Costa Unified School District, private schools, and/or similar interested parties and community-based organizations to design and paint mural(s) that inspire the community while reducing indoor heat using reflective paint.

EH-2d Install indoor and outdoor temperature sensors in the identified locations prior to completing the mural and continue to track data after the murals are installed to measure indoor changes in temperature to quantify the benefits of the project.

EH-2e Identify and apply for grants to fund the completion of the mural and/or work with cool paint manufacturers to supply a small amount of paint at no cost for a pilot project where their name would be included on a plaque with volunteer artists who partner with the City to donate their time and expertise to create a unique project.

City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) EH-2f Host a community unveiling ceremony where the artists and project partners are invited to participate in a meet and greet and celebrate the community in an unveiling celebration that can also be used to provide the community with information on the status of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation and resources including relevant community incentives and rebates.

Wildfire
WF-1 Enforce defensible space and home hardening standards to mitigate structure ignitions from wind blow embers,
conduct ongoing community workshops on homehardening techniques, and connect community members to funding resources to implement these
techniques.
122
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)

Wildfire
Defensible space is defined as the buffer created between a building and the surrounding ecosystem (grass, shrubs, and any wildland area) that is necessary to slow or prevent the spread of wildfire. Not only does defensible space protect buildings from catching on fire from embers, direct flames, or radiant heat, it also provides a physical space for firefighters to work.56 Hardening (i.e., preparing) homes and businesses for potential wildfire include utilization of noncombustible materials during necessary replacements (e.g., fire rated roofs), caulking and plugging gaps, and installing weather stripping, among other things. Implementation of this measure would include conducting a feasibility study and if recommended, amending the Pinole Building Code to require best-practice Ignition Resistant Construction methods for new construction and substantial redevelopment in the wildfire hazard zone (Action CR-1b). Additionally, a built asset vulnerability assessment will be completed to identify which City-owned facilities and infrastructure have the highest risk to wildfire impacts and then identify opportunities to mitigate the risks. Similar goals are expected to be codified at the state level through AB 2322, which requires the State Fire Marshal to research and develop mandatory building standards for fire resistance prior to the next triennial edition of the California Building Standards Code adoption (January 1, 2026).

WF-1 Enforce defensible space and home hardening standards to mitigate structure ignitions from wind-blown embers and direct flame impingement in fire hazard severity zones and protect the community from wildfires.

WF-1a Partner with Housing Authority Contra Costa to
conduct a study that estimates potential housing
displacement impacts associated with wildfire
events.

WF-1b Conduct a feasibility study and if recommended,
amend the Pinole Building Code Title 15 (Building
and Construction) to require best-practice Ignition
Resistant Construction methods for new
construction and substantial redevelopment in the
wildfire hazard zone.
123
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Pillars
Structural Change
Education
Equity
Funding
Partnerships
Feasibility
Co-Benefits
Access to healthy food
Cleaner air/water
Improved accessibility
Cost savings
More green spaces
Improved economy
Disaster preparedness, safety, and resilience
Emissions
Reductions
2030: N/A
2045: N/A
Key Performance
Indicators:
▪ Feasibility study status

56. https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prepare-for-wildfire/get-ready/defensible-space/

124
WF-1e Conduct a built asset vulnerability assessment to identify which City-owned facilities and infrastructure have the highest risk to wildfire impacts, identify opportunities to mitigate risk and implement changes.

WF-1f Evaluate and help identify and apply for funding for infrastructure improvements at Pinole Fire Station 74 to mitigate against wildfire hazards (fire breaks, fire resistant building materials, etc.).

WF-1g Actively engage in collaborative efforts to reduce wildfire risks, implementing effective mitigation strategies, and fostering a culture of fire safety through education and community involvement to achieve Firewise recognition
WF-1h Prepare, adopt, and fully implement a Vegetation Management Plan for high-fire risk areas.

WF-1i Continue to conduct proactive vegetation/weed abatement enforcement by removing vegetation and/or brush in areas adjacent to wildfire hazard zones, including both public and private property. Establish a comprehensive defensible space zone and fire breaks within the VHFHSZ, and a regular maintenance schedule. A FEMA approved HMP can establish eligibility for grant funding to complete fuel modification projects.

WF-1j Locate future critical facilities outside of the wildfire hazard zone.

WF-1k Continue to coordinate with PG&E through Rule 20A Program to underground utility lines to mitigate wildfire risk.

WF-1l Conduct on-going workshops on defensible space, vegetation management, and homehardening techniques based upon most up to date CAL FIRE management guidelines and policies for landowners in fire hazard severity zones.

WF-1m Foster a community partnership that can successfully apply for and receive funding from programs such as the CAL FIRE Defensible Space Assistance Grant program and upcoming opportunities that become available.

City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) WF-1c Develop a subsidy program to improve air quality in the homes of low-income residents or vulnerable community members to mitigate impacts from wildfire smoke.

WF-1d Partner with West Contra Costa Fire Safe Council to help secure grant funding for mitigation activities that promote fire safe retrofits of existing structures that meet ignition-resistant building codes.

“I have solar and am interested in
trying to consume less energy than
I produce and also track
to look for patterns to make sure
there is no wasted energy.”
– Pinole Community Member
I m p l e m e n t a t i o n

Implementation and
Monitoring
We share a long history of completing projects
to reduce GHG emissions and address climate
impacts. With the adoption of this CAAP,
additional collaboration and action will be
necessary to reduce GHG emissions in line with
the climate mitigation and adaptation goals.

Establishing, maintaining, and enhancing new,
and existing, relationships between the City and
the community will be a pivotal piece in
achieving the Plan’s targets. Being transparent
about progress over time is critical to building
trust with the community.

Additionally, new policies and ordinances will be
needed to drive change in tandem with new and
innovative funding mechanisms to bolster the
transformation of infrastructure and technology.

Programs to educate and empower the
community will increase awareness and action.
126
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Earth Walk Community Art Project, 2023
The City will implement measures that mitigate
GHG emissions and increase climate change
resilience in an equitable manner and avoid
traditional hurdles.

While substantial evidence suggests that the
emission reduction measures outlined in this
CAAP will achieve the City’s 2030 targets,
uncertainty increases over time as impacts
related to climate change may evolve or
intensify. The adoption rates of each measure
and action, costs of technology, legislative
environment, and benefits assumed in this
report will also continue to evolve over time.

Therefore, this CAAP should be viewed as a
strategic framework that will be re-evaluated
regularly. This chapter discusses the
implementation plan, monitoring and reporting
processes, and how the City will prepare
updates over time.

CAAP Implementation
Cities around the world already face challenges in meeting community needs for investment in many types of critical infrastructure and programs. Climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels, severe weather conditions, and wildfires, will only cause further damage to infrastructure, property, and people's livelihoods. Inevitably the City will incur substantial costs in repairing and rebuilding damaged infrastructure and supporting affected communities because of climate change. To minimize these costs, the City has developed an implementation plan that outlines the steps, timelines, and resources required to achieve the goals and objectives of the CAAP. Some actions such as adopting ordinances or resolutions to establish an electrification reach code can be done on a short timetable; while others, such as implementation of the Active Transportation Plan will require longer timelines for both rollout of the infrastructure and use by the community. Tables 10 – 12 included below provide detailed information on implementation of each action, including the department responsible for implementing the action, the phase in which the initiative will be implemented, and examples of what the funding sources could be.

The timeline in Figure 14 shows the five-year implementation and update schedule, with a phased approach to measure implementation. To achieve the 2030 GHG emissions reductions targets discussed in Chapter 2, Pinole will need to begin implementing the measures and actions immediately following adoption, no later than December 2024. CAAP Updates will follow the phased implementation approach, beginning with Phase 1, which will occur in the short-term over the next five years (2024 – 2029). Phase 2 would include implementation of the mid-term measures, while Phase 3 would include implementation of the longer-term measures, that are anticipated to occur after feasibility studies are complete and initial measures are implemented. If the actions identified in the CAAP are not implemented or the GHG inventories don’t track progress towards the 2030 target, additional actions will need to be developed and adopted in a CAAP update. 127
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Figure 14 CAAP Implementation and Monitoring Schedule

The first CAAP progress report will be prepared
in 2025 and the CAAP will be reviewed and
updated in 2029, based on current best practice
at that time.

CAAP Monitoring
Monitoring and reporting processes are
essential for accountability towards achieving
the adopted targets. As part of the CAAP, the
City will complete an annual progress report as
well as a five-year CAAP review and update. The
annual progress reports will include both
evaluating implementation progress against the
schedule and calculating an annual
communitywide GHG emissions inventory. The
City will also appoint a dedicated team
responsible for monitoring and reporting on the
implementation of the CAAP. This team will
collaborate with interested parties to collect
data and information on the effectiveness of
implemented strategies and report the progress
to the City Council and the public. The City
Council will in turn provide oversight and
guidance on the implementation of the CAAP.
128
City of Pinole Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) CAPDash
CAPDash, shown in Figure 5, is a web-based
dashboard developed by Rincon Consultants,
Inc. that allows Pinole to monitor the annual
emission reductions achieved through the
implementation of each measure and fulfill the
requirements of CEQA Section 15183.5(b)(1)(e).

The City will conduct annual implementation
monitoring of the GHG emissions reduction
measures. The process for tracking and
quantifying measure implementation status
relies on specific target metrics identified for
each of the quantifiable CAAP measures and
actions. By committing to annual monitoring of
implementation progress and adjusting as
needed, Pinole can effectively mitigate GHG
emissions and adapt to climate change. In doing
so, Pinole will make it’s fair-share contribution
to meeting statewide GHG emission reduction
goals, increase resilience across the community
and reap the co-benefits in public health,
economic growth, resilience, and more. This
strategic plan represents another significant
step in the City’s dedication to a sustainable
future.

Figure 15 CAPDash

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
Strategy CR. Cornerstone
CR-1. Leverage the CAAP’s work around electrification, transportation infrastructure buildout, organic waste diversion, and carbon sequestration to establish Pinole as a center for green economic development and high-road jobs.

CR-1a Coordinate with the City’s Economic Development staff to review and update the Pinole Economic Development Strategy every three years (2026/28, 2029/31, 2032/34, etc.) and adjust fees to specifically attract green and clean energy businesses to Pinole by reflecting changing economic trends, evolving community needs, and emerging opportunities. Include an annual review of the fee schedules (including a survey of competitor’s fees) to assess their impact on green businesses.

Community
Development
Phase 1 ▪ Office of Planning and
Research Covid Economic
Relief Fund: Implementation
Program
▪ Economic Development
Administration’s Public Works
and Economic Adjustment
Assistance Programs
▪ Office of Business and
Economic Development
Accelerate California Grant
CR-1b Work with the City’s Economic Development staff to perform direct outreach to existing Pinole businesses to identify climate change impacts (e.g., climate hazards, increasing water and natural gas costs, etc.) that may affect the longterm viability and growth of existing core industries and small business.

Include regional green and clean energy businesses in a “short list” of industries to focus these initial outreach and business retention efforts during Phase 1.

Community
Development
Phase 1 ▪ Office of Planning and
Research Integrated Climate
Adaptation Plan
▪ Economic Development
Department Workforce
Development Fund
CR-1c In partnership with organizations such as the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County or Contra Costa College, create a green workforce development program to connect Pinole residents to workforce development training courses for climate industries with high-road jobs. Additionally, use the program to develop a network of local professional associations active in Pinole and to incorporate green workforce development training courses into the periodic “Pinole Workforce Development Consortium” meetings identified in the Economic Development Strategy. Focus this program on members of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable communities in the City and track enrollment and success rate by zip code to monitor the reach and distribution of the initiative.

Community
Development
Phase 1 ▪ Economic Development
Administration ’s Public
Works and Economic
Adjustment Assistance
Programs
▪ Economic Development
Department Workforce
Development Fund
▪ Office of Planning and
Research Covid Economic
Relief Fund: Implementation
Program
Table 10 Implementation of Mitigation Strategies, Measures, and Actions 129

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
CR-1d Partner with the Contra Costa County Green Business Program to help smalland medium-sized businesses in Pinole minimize their impact on the environment and increase the number of certified Green Businesses in Pinole.

Community
Development
Phase 1 Economic Development
Department Equity Target
Population Fund
CR-1e Create a Green Technology Incubator in partnership with the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County, Contra Costa College, the Renaissance Entrepreneur Center, the East Bay Economic Development Alliance, or similar partners, to help startups and companies working on innovative solutions for climate-related challenges to succeed in the market.

The Green Technology Incubator would provide access to funding through identification and partnership opportunities for grants, technical assistance, networking support, and community exposure.

Community
Development
Phase 2 ▪ Office of Planning and
Research Covid Economic
Relief Fund: Implementation
Program
▪ Economic Development
Administration’s Public Works
and Economic Adjustment
Assistance Programs
▪ Office of Business and
Economic Development
Accelerate California Grant
▪ Economic Development
Department Workforce
Development Fund
CR-1f Incentivize optimal use of properties with a water view by adoption of Municipal Code Amendments allowing for height exceptions for mixed use developments that include top-floor restaurants that are dense, transit rich and connected to Pinole's growing active transportation network.

Community
Development
Phase 2
CR-1g Based on the findings and recommendation of the broadband feasibility study (currently in progress), a subsidy or grant program may be developed to improve existing infrastructure of multi-family units (i.e., upgrade internal wiring etc.) to update policies to increase Pinole residents' work-from-home rate, including incorporating work-from-home strategies into the Transportation Demand Management standards of Action TR-3a.

Community
Development
Phase 2 California Public Utilities
Commission Broadband Adoption
Account
CR-1h Explore locations within the City to create a plan to develop a climate resilience district. The district would receive focused City resources, support, partnerships with local businesses, and engagement to develop resilient communities. Examples could include the Pinole Valley area to focus on funding projects related to wildfire risk, for example.

Community
Development
Phase 2 ▪ Governor’s Office of Planning
and Research Integrated
Climate Adaptation and
Resiliency Program
Adaptation Planning Grant
Program
▪ Caltrans Sustainable
Transportation Planning Grant
130

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
Strategy BE. Building Energy
BE-1. Electrify 100% of new construction in the City by 2024.

BE-1a Adopt a single margin source energy score or more stringent ordinance in 2024 to avoid new natural gas construction.

Community
Development
Department
Phase 1 California Automated Processing
Program
BE-1b Partner with organizations such as MCE, Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN), the Building Decarbonization Coalition and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to compile a suite of case studies (e.g., document/guide on all-electric best practices and examples applicable to Pinole or the Bay Area) and cost-effective strategies (e.g., energy efficiency improvements) for electric buildings by prototype. Provide digital copies on the City’s website and hard copies at City Hall for residents and business owners to review and utilize.

Community
Development
Department
Phase 1 Bureau of Reclamation
WaterSMART Water and Energy
Efficiency Grants
BE-1c Partner with organizations such as MCE, BayREN, the Building Decarbonization Coalition, and USGBC to educate building owners, developers, and contractors on the cost savings, environmental benefits, and versatility associated with allelectric construction, as well as the advantages all-electric construction provide for United States Green Building Council LEED certification. Utilize the case studies and cost-effective strategies as well as existing resources such as those provided by MCE as educational materials and share the information on the City’s website, at City events (such as Dumpster Day and Earth Walk), and at the City’s permit counter.

Community
Development
Department
Phase 1
BE-1d Partner with PG&E to conduct an electrification infrastructure and capacity feasibility study to identify expected increases in electricity demand due to building and vehicle electrification and identify infrastructure improvements (including local renewable energy and storage projects) to increase capacity to meet demand. During this process, work with MCE to provide projections on load changes due to electrification.

Community
Development
Department
Phase 1
BE-1e Partner with MCE, the WFDBCCC and/or other organizations to host regular workforce development trainings for installers, local contractors, and building owners/operators. Trainings would provide financial resources and technical requirements, including information on new electric appliances and approaches to electrification. Partner with community-based organizations to connect members of vulnerable communities to these training programs in plain language and in a culturally appropriate manner.

Community
Development
Department
Phase 1 Economic Development
Department Workforce
Development Fund
BE-1f Advocate for regional policy and programs that allow for utility rates that are supportive of electrification (i.e., electricity rates lower than natural gas rates).

Community
Development
Department
Phase 2
131

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
BE-2. Electrify existing residential buildings to reduce natural gas consumption 31% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

BE-2a Adopt a reach code in 2024 requiring all central air conditioning unit installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling with a single unit for residential buildings.

The ordinance would apply to projects after calendar year 2024. The ordinance would be implemented through the building permit process.

Planning and
Building
Phase 1
BE-2b After calendar year 2024, include major renovations (i.e., projects that affect over 50% of the building, add an additional 50% of gross floor space to the building, or value more than 50% of the assessed value of the property at time of application submittal) in the all-electric new residential building requirements.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-2c Complete a residential existing building electrification feasibility analysis by 2024 to determine the upfront and on-bill costs associated with building electrification strategies and draw on existing ordinances from similar jurisdictions to identify barriers to replacement and permit compliance (including equity barriers). This information will be used to inform and support future updates to the existing building electrification ordinances as well as the building electrification resource center (Action BE-2e).

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-2d Partner with Contra Costa County to create a virtual all-electric building resource center to provide residents information on available electrification assessments, turn-key installations by BayREN/state vetted contractors, low up-front costs and on-bill financing, and equipment and labor warranties.

Community
Development
Phase 1 Department of Energy Grid
Innovation Program
BE-2e As part of the building electrification resource center, provide free assessments to rental and multi-family properties, as well as seniors and residents living on low incomes.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-2f Partner with MCE and PG&E to review incentives, rebates, and on-bill financing options for procedural equity and then update the incentives to remove the identified barriers.

Community
Development
Phase 2
BE-2g Partner with properties in Pinole that provide deed-restricted affordable housing, MCE, PG&E, and BayREN to initiate and complete an affordable housing electrification pilot project. Project will implement energy efficiency strategies to mitigate increased energy bills for occupants. Promote the pilot project as a case study for future projects in the City.

Planning and
Building
Phase 1
132

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
BE-2h Work with MCE and PG&E to conduct a cost-effectiveness study and design electricity and natural gas billing rates that make electrification the most costeffective option to reduce energy bill burdens for residents living on low and medium incomes.

Planning and
Building
Phase 1
BE-2i Provide education around cooking with electric appliances and partner with local chefs and/or restaurants to host cooking demonstrations at community events such as the Farmers’ Market. Integrate locally sourced food into the demonstrations to also educate community members on the GHG emission reduction and resilience benefits of local food.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-2j Enforce ordinance compliance through a comprehensive permitting compliance program which may include, but is not limited to:
▪ Providing dedicated time for routine staff training to incorporate into existing building inspections.
▪ Imposing fees for noncompliance to offset staff costs and encouraging voluntary compliance.
▪ Establishing easy-to-understand web-based compliance checklists and permit applications.
▪ Facilitating online permitting.
▪ Providing zero-cost permit fees for heat pump installations.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-2k Develop and implement a water heater loan program where residents who are replacing their natural gas-powered water heaters with electric-powered water heaters at the end of their useful lives can borrow or rent at no cost a working natural gas water heater from the City for a limited period of time (e.g., three weeks) to use during any electrical panel upgrade requirements to install an electric water heater. Participation in this program could serve as a mechanism to support thoughtful residential transition. Consider expanding the loan program to induction stoves as well.

Community
Development
Phase 1 California Automated Permit
Processing Program: Solar
Automated Processing Program
BE-2l Partner with Rising Sun, or similar entity, to continue providing “Green House Calls” to residents to recommend energy-saving appliances and programs to help offset the costs of electrification.

Community
Development
Phase 1 Bureau of Reclamation
WaterSMART Water and Energy
Efficiency Grants
BE-2m Work with PG&E to identify opportunities for natural gas infrastructure pruning to reduce the chance of stranded assets, provide potential funding, and establish an efficient transition to carbon-neutral buildings. Engage local developers, MCE, and vulnerable populations to assess the feasibility of adopting an end-of-flow ordinance that would require natural gas lines be capped and decommissioned in existing buildings by 2045.

Building Phase 2 – 3
BE-2n Adopt an end-of-flow ordinance that would require natural gas lines by capped and decommissioned in existing buildings by 2045.

Community
Development
Phase 1
133

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
BE-3. Electrify existing commercial and mixed-use (i.e., combined commercial and residential) buildings to reduce natural gas consumption 26% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

BE-3a Complete an existing commercial building electrification feasibility analysis by 2024 to determine the upfront and on-bill costs associated with building electrification strategies and draw on existing ordinances from similar jurisdictions to identify barriers to replacement and permit compliance (including equity barriers).

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-3b Adopt a reach code in 2024 requiring all central air conditioning unit installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling with a single unit for commercial and mixed-use buildings. The ordinance will be implemented through the building permit process. Track annual progress on commercial and mixed-use building electrification through the same permit tracking program developed for residential building electrification.

Planning Phase 1 California Electric Homes
Program
BE-3c Evaluate the success of the pilot Pinole Energy Efficiency Rebate Program which offers for calendar year 2024 additional rebates to Pinole residents for energy efficiency improvements stacked on top of federal, state, or regional rebates or discounts. Work with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development to restructure the pilot program as needed.

Seek annual grant funding sources to sustain and support the program through.

Planning Phase 1
BE-3d Develop a building performance standard program to meet a specific level of energy use per square foot for all commercial and industrial buildings over 20,000 square feet.

Implementation and compliance support, including resources and tools which will be implemented through four phases:

1. Pre-development phase – Phase 1 – Staff to receive technical assistance from the Building Technologies Office in the Federal Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). Per the EERE, technical assistance may take the form of:
▪ Building stock analyses, including analysis of energy and emission impacts associated with building performance standard adoption ▪ Performance target-setting and trajectories
▪ Measure and technology prioritization and packaging
▪ Cost-effectiveness analyses
Planning and
Building
Phase 1 – 3 California Electric Homes
Program
134

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
BE-3d
cont.

2. Data collection phase – Phase 2 – All commercial and industrial building owners with floor area over 20,000 square feet report electricity and natural gas data through energy star portfolio manager

3. Retro commissioning phase –Phase 3 – All covered building owners complete a retro commissioning process to identify and correct system inefficiencies while identifying opportunities for electrification and downsizing of oversized equipment.

4. GHG Performance Standard – Phase 4 – Implement a building performance standard that requires buildings to meet a specific GHG performance level
BE-3e Conduct targeted outreach and complete tailored campaigns during development of the building performance program (Action BE-3d) and electrification ordinance (Action BE-3b) to identify potential barriers to commercial and mixed-use electrification (including equity barriers) and educate commercial and mixed-use property owners on the potential cost savings and other benefits of electrification. Include targeted outreach to building owners that rent or lease space to small businesses and minorityowned businesses as well as the business owners and conduct a survey to such businesses to identify specific resources needed to support an equitable building electrification.

Planning and
Building
Phase 1 ▪ Economic Development
Department Workforce
Development Fund
▪ Economic Development
Department Equity Target
Fund
BE-3f Partner with Contra Costa Health Services to provide small and minorityowned businesses/commercial property owners or property owners that rent or lease space to small or minority-owned business, electrification assessments, turn-key installations by BayREN/state vetted contractors, low up-front costs, and equipment and labor warranties through the building electrification resource center (Action BE-2e). Additionally, partner with MCE or PG&E to provide on-bill financing.

Community
Development
Phase 1 Economic Development
Department Equity Target Fund
BE-3g Partner with the Bay Area Council, Bay Front Chamber of Commerce, and Contra Cost County Green Business Program to inform, encourage, and facilitate electrification for commercial business owners.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-3h Review incentives and rebates (from Action BE-3g) for procedural equity and develop a process so that existing and updated incentive programs continue to be equitably distributed to the community. Hurdles to equitable implementation could include credit checks, excessive procedural roadblocks, and lack of targeted outreach.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-3i Work with MCE and PG&E to incentivize all-electric retrofits by combining rebate programs and financing mechanisms to create cost-effective Planning and
Building
Phase 2
135

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
BE-3i
cont.
electrification packages and develop bulk-purchasing opportunities for multiunit development owners. Additionally, work with BayREN to educate the business community about the available incentives and include direct outreach to small, and frontline community-owned businesses and property owners who rent and lease space to frontline community-owned businesses.

BE-3j Work with BayREN to identify highly efficient net zero energy building owners that meet the CPUC’s hard-to-reach criteria and publicize commercial tax breaks to these building owners as well as commercial developers in Pinole.

Community
Development
Phase 2
BE-3k Re-evaluate the building performance program (Action BE-3d) every three years to gauge implementation progress and phase expansion of program to smaller buildings.

Building Phase 2 – 3
BE-3l Review and update Section 15.46.020 of the Municipal Code to require upon a transfer of ownership the disclosure of additional relevant weatherization information (e.g., ventilation standards, wall insulation, and installation of programmable thermostats) for residences and commercial buildings over 5,000 square feet. As part of this, work with Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development to promote the Weatherization Program for qualifying residents. Additionally, develop a City-specific disclosure checklist and coordinate with realtors/brokers to engrain the City’s resale requirements into their work with buyers and sellers.

Building Phase 2
BE-4. Work with MCE to provide carbon-free and renewable energy to at least 95% of the community by 2030.

BE-4a Support MCE in building capacity and funding to provide all Pinole customers 100% carbon-free and renewable energy and adopt a City resolution to enroll all Pinole residents and businesses in carbon-free and renewable from MCE (e.g., MCE’s Deep Green option) by 2030. The resolution shall include identification of a funding or subsidy plan/program to avoid cost increases to customers enrolled in the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) or Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs (Action BE-4b).

Planning Phase 1
BE-4b In support of Action BE-4a, work with MCE to create a funding and subsidy plan/program for customers enrolled in the CARE or FERA programs to opt-up to MCE’s Deep Green option. This may include subsidizing costs to customers who participate in CARE/FERA programs through non-discounted customer rate increase or obtainment of funding for vulnerable communities.

Planning Phase 1
BE-4c Continue to work with MCE to conduct an annual analysis of opt-out rates in the City and expand the research to understand why residents and businesses opt out of MCE. Include targeted outreach to residents living on low and fixed incomes and vulnerable communities to identify barriers to remaining with MCE.

Planning Phase 1
136

Action ID Action Text
Responsible
Department Phase Potential Grant Funding Sources
BE-4d Continue to partner with MCE to conduct educational campaigns, including tabling at community events, establishing informational resources on the City's website, regularly posting on social media, and developing energy bill inserts, to highlight the benefits of 100% renewable energy and promote the available incentives.

Community
Development
Phase 1
BE-4e Conduct targeted outreach campaigns to convert PG&E direct access customers to MCE by promoting available incentives and promoting the economic and business benefits of 100% renewable energy.

Community
Development
Phase 2
BE-5. Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy.

BE-5a Adopt a PV (Solar) Ordinance requiring newly constructed and majorly renovated multi-family and commercial buildings to install PV systems and storage that meet minimum requirements of Tier 2 Voluntary Standards under CalGreen.

Planning Phase 1 California Automated Permit
Processing Program: Solar
Automated Processing Program
BE-5b Continue to establish and streamline standards and permit requirements for electrification-related installations and battery storage systems to allow for easier implementation of these technologies in the City.

Planning Phase 1
BE-5c Install a co-located community solar and storage facility to benefit affordable housing sites using Equity Resilience Incentives under the Self-Generation Incentive Program available through the California Public Utilities Commission.

Public Works Phase 1 California Energy Commission
Block Grant for Electric Vehicle
Charger Incentive Projects
BE-5d Collaborate with PG&E, MCE, and/or other community partners to support and incentivize local on-site energy generation and storage resources. This could include:
▪ Connecting home and business owners, particularly those in vulnerable communities, to incentives for renewable energy and storage including Net Metering Programs through PG&E for bill credits, the Disadvantaged Communities-single-family Solar Homes (DAC_SASH) program, SelfGeneration Incentive Program (SGIP), and Equity Resilience rebates that provide an upfront rebate for battery storage, as well as the federal investment tax credit.
▪ Promoting installation of storage technology in concert with renewable energy infrastructure through multilingual education programs, outreach, and information provided via City platforms.
▪ Providing workshops to large commercial developers and large business property owners on the benefits of microgrids and energy resilience. ▪ Creating a strike team to conduct engagement efforts for the commercial sector to identify ways the City can support commercial energy storage installations and neighborhood scale microgrid opportunities.

Community
Development
Phase 1 Department of Energy Grid
Innovation Program
137