1 979 Osos Street, Suite 5
San Luis Obispo California, 93406
November 6, 2023
Re: Forefront
Power805 548-0340/ [email protected]
Honorable Alice Patino, Mayor
and Members of the City Council
110 East Cook Street,
Santa Maria, California 93454-5190
Dear Mayor Patino
and Council Members:
COLAB of San Luis Obispo County is a not-for-profit government watchdog and business advocacy group of farmers, ranchers, business owners, and engaged citizens which supports economic growth, freedom, family, and heritage.
Your Agenda of November 7 will contain a recommendation from staff to install new Forefront Power solar energy facilities at 6 City sites, some of which are critical for public safety.
In 2021, San Luis Obispo County contracted with Forefront Power to install a ground mounted solar generation facility at its Operations Center in San Luis Obispo. That facility includes the mens’ and womens’ jails, a corporation yard, animal shelter, juvenile hall and other support facilities.
First year savings was $138,000 and it is expected that the cumulative 20 year savings will be $6.2 million.
The jails and juvenile hall are 24/7 public safety facilities which are heavy energy users.
Similarly the corporation yard operates a variety of machinery, power tools, and fueling pumps which all must function on a 24 hour basis. Fire engines, Sheriffs vehicles, and heavy equipment must be supported around the clock. Energy redundancy provided by Forefront is an important addition. The County has been well satisfied.
As a growing business, we are proud to support Forefront Power which has extensive experience in providing local governments with alternative power at a cost savings.
Santa Maria’s projected savings are in excess of $14 million over 20 years.
Please consider partnering with this reliable and experienced company. Thank you for your consideration.
Michael F. Brown, Government Affairs Director
Cc: Jason Stilwell, City Manager