City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: August 5, 2025
From: Todd Dusenberry, General Manager of Public Utilities Department: Public Utilities
Submitted by: Adriana Ramos, Senior Management Analyst
Subject
Payment to California Municipal Utilities Association
Recommendation
Approve and authorize the issuance of a payment to the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA) for the annual membership dues for a total amount not-to-exceed $110,143.
Background
The California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA) is a non-profit association comprised of publicly owned electric and water utilities (POUs) in California. CMUA represents its members’ interests on energy and water issues before the California Legislature, the Governor’s Office and regulatory bodies, such as the California Energy Commission, the California Air Resources Board, the Department of Water Resources, the California Independent System Operator, and the State Water Resources Control Board. These POUs are responsible for the planning, financing, development, acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance of projects related to the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric energy. Their goal is to provide safe, reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible electric services to their customers.
CMUA actively engages in legislative and regulatory matters to assist Vernon Public Utilities (VPU) in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities relevant to the utility. Its primary goal is to support VPU in providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy and water services, especially by addressing affordability concerns through legislation.
The proposed payment to CMUA is exempt from competitive bidding and competitive selection pursuant to Sections 3.32.110(A)(8) and 3.32.110(B)(1) of the Vernon Municipal Code (VMC).
This exemption is applicable as payment is for membership dues and because CMUA is the sole utility organization that represents both municipal water agencies and public power utilities. It actively monitors the complex and constantly changing legislative, regulatory, and operational requirements affecting California utilities. CMUA provides invaluable research, analysis, and advocacy for its members. By retaining membership, VPU can safeguard both its interests and those of the community, as CMUA provides high-value services crucial for these objectives.
To ensure continued support from CMUA during fiscal year 2025-26, staff recommends approval to issue $110,143 in payment to CMUA for the annual membership dues. Pursuant to VMC Section 3.32.030(A), City Council approval is required for the proposed payment, as the total value of the invoice exceeds $100,000.
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact is not-to-exceed $110,143. Sufficient funds are available in the Electric Fund, Light & Power Administration, Membership Dues, Account No. 055-050-580-529550 for the current fiscal year.
Attachments
1. California Municipal Utilities Association – Invoice No. 26-095