COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Brett Fulgoni, Director of Public Works
DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing a Lease Agreement with Central Coast Community Energy for Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at 418 South McClelland Street
Description:
The City Council will consider adopting a Resolution authorizing a lease agreement with Central Coast Community Energy for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at 418 South McClelland Street.
Environmental Notice: The project qualifies for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301 – Existing facilities (operation, repair, maintenance, leasing, etc.) of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines because the scope of work to be conducted is an existing public facility with negligible expansion of the existing uses.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt a Resolution authorizing a lease agreement with Central Coast Community Energy for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at 418 South McClelland Street with the condition that the charging stations provide free, unrestricted public access twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week, year- round; and
2. Authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to execute agreement.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Santa Maria and Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) are collaborating on a pilot program to expand public EV charging infrastructure within the City. Under the proposed lease agreement, 3CE would install, own, and operate 9 -port EV charging stations at no cost in designated City -owned street parking spaces at 418 South McClelland Street.
In 2017 local communities established 3CE to source clean and renewable electricity for customers throughout Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara counties. 3CE is locally controlled and governed by board members who represent each community served by the agency.
2 With no investors or shareholders, revenue generated by 3CE stays local. It helps keep electricity rates fair for all customers while also funding innovative energy programs designed to lower greenhouse gas emissions and stimulate community investment.
DISCUSSION:
The proposed lease agreement has a ten-year term with no rental fee, and 3CE is solely responsible for installation, operation, and maintenance of the charging stations. Council should note that while the stati ons provide a public benefit, the City retains the current obligations for general street and parking lot maintenance and compliance with local parking laws. Additionally, 3CE will be responsible for installation of appropriate signage at the EV charging s tations located at 418 South McClelland Street, listing hours of operation for community usage.
Alternative(s)
City Council may choose not to enter into the lease agreement with Central Coast Community Energy for the installation of EV charging stations.
Fiscal Considerations
There is no direct cost to the City for the installation or operation of the EV charging stations. 3CE will cover all costs associated with construction, installation of signage, utilities, maintenance, and equipment, while the City will continue to provide routine street and parking lot upkeep as part of its normal operations.
Impact on the Community
The addition of public EV charging stations supports the community’s transition to cleaner transportation options and aligns with stat ewide sustainability goals. These stations will provide convenient charging access for residents, commuters, and visitors, encouraging EV adoption while reinforcing the City’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Resolution
B. Agreement