1908 AGENDA OCTOBER 1, 2019 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 128 S. 5TH STREET FOWLER, CA 93625  FOWLER CITY COUNCIL MEETING  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to access the Council Chambers or to otherwise participate at this meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, please contact City Clerk Jeannie Davis at (559) 834-3113 ext. 302. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the Council Any writing or document that is a public record and provided to a majority oft the City Council regarding an open session item on the agenda will be made available for public inspection at City Hall, in the City Clerk's office, during normal business hours. In addition, such writings and documents may be posted on  meeting. The City of Fowler is an equal opportunity provider and employer.  the City's website aty www.fowlercitvy.org. Meeting called to order  1. 2. 3. 4. 5.  Flag Salute and Pledge of Allegiance  Invocation Roll call  Public Presentations - (This portion of the meeting reserved for persons desiring to address the Council on any matter not described on this agenda. Presentations are limited to 5 minutes per person and no more than 15 minutes per topic.) With respect to the approval of resolutions and ordinances, the reading of the title thereto shall be deemed a motion to waive a reading of the complete resolution or ordinance and unless there is a request by a Councilmember that the resolution or ordinance be read in full, further reading of the resolution or ordinance shall be Presentation by Colby' Wells of Southern California Gas Company: Consider and Approve Resolution No. 2440, "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fowler, County of Fresno, State of California in Support of Maintaining Local Control of  deemed waived by unanimous consent of the Council.  6.  Energy Solutions"    7. 8.  Communications Staff Reports  A) Approve the Appointment of Mr. Dario Dominguez to the Public Works Director Position at Step B ($7,446.91) of the Public Works Director Range of  the City's Salary Schedule B) City Engineer's Report  Update on South Kings GSA  C) City Manager's Report D) Public Works Report  E) F)  Finance Department Report Police Department Report G) Fire Department Report City Attorney's Report  9. 10.  Consent Calendar Items on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and shall be approved by one motion of the Council. Ifa Councilmember requests additional information or wants to comment on an item, the vote should be held until the questions or comments are made, and then a single vote should be taken. Ifa Councilmember objects to an item, then it should be removed and acted upon asa  separate item. A)  Ratification of Warrants = October 1, 2019  B) Approve Minutes of the City Council Meeting - September 17, 2019 C) Accept the City of Fowler 2019 Street Maintenance Project Constructed by Asphalt Maintenance Co. and Authorize the City Engineer to File the Notice  of Completion  11.  Committee Reports (No action except where a specific report is on the agenda)  Mayor Cardenas Mayor Pro Tem Hammer Councilmember Kazarian Councilmember Parra Councimember Rodriquez  2    12. Closed Session:  *  Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 - Conference with Real Property Negotiators: Property: 130 S. 6th Street. Agency Negotiators: City Manager. Negotiating Party: United Health Centers. Under Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 - Public Employee  Negotiation: Price, terms.  Performance Evaluation. Title: City Manager  13. Adjournment  Next Ordinance No. 2019-04  Next Resolution No. 2441  CERTIFICATION: 1, Corina Burrola, Deputy City Clerk oft the City of Fowler, California, hereby certify that  the foregoing,agenda was posted for public review on Friday, September 27, 2019.  ODaua Tac  Corina Burrola Deputy City Clerk  3    ITEM  6  RESOLUTION NO. 2440  A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOWLER, COUNTY OF FRESNO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA IN SUPPORT OF MAINTAINING LOCAL  CONTROL OF ENERGY SOLUTONS  Whereas California's energy policies are critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions Whereas the state legislature and state agencies are increasingly proposing new legislation and regulations eliminating choice of energy by mandating technologies to power buildings and public and private fleets, including transit and long-haul trucking, as Whereas clean, affordable and reliable energy is crucial to the material health, safety and well-being of City of Fowler residents, particularly the most vulnerable, who live on fixed incomes, including the elderly and working families who are struggling financially; Whereas the need for clean, affordable and reliable energy to attract and retain local businesses, create jobs and spur economic development is vital to our city's success in a highly competitive and increasingly regional and global marketplace; and Whereas City of Fowler, its residents and businesses value local control and the right to choose the policies and investments that most affordably and efficiently enable them to Whereas building and vehicle technology mandates eliminate local control and customer choice, suppress innovation, reduce reliability and unnecessarily increase Whereas the City understands that relying on a single energy delivery system unnecessarily increases vulnerabilities to natural and man-made disasters, and that a diversity of energy delivery systems and resources contribute to greater reliability and Whereas City of Fowler understands the need to mitigate the impacts of climate change and is committed to doing its part to help the state achieve its climate goals, but requires the flexibility to do sO in a manner that best serves the needs of its residents  and reducing the impact of climate change on our citizens; and  as strategy to achieve the state's climate goals; and  and  comply with state requirements; and  costs for City of Fowler residents and businesses; and  community resilience; and  and businesses. NOW, THEREFORE,  BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the City of Fowler, as follows:  That the City supports balanced energy solutions that provide it with the decision- making authority and resources needed to achieve the state's climate goals and opposes proposed state legislation and policy that eliminate local control by mandating    technologies that can be used to power buildings and fuel vehicles, and also meet or  exceed emissions reductions regulations. Approved and adopted the  day of  2019.  AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN:  David Cardenas, Mayor  Jeannie Davis, City Clerk    2019 Clean Energy Roadmap  SoCalGas 'Sempra! Energy utility"  Reducing Emissions in the Gas Supply  For the past several years, SoCalGas has researched the critical role renewable natural gas (RNG) needs to play in achieving California's environmental goals. We are taking positive steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our gas supply, by displacing traditional fossil gas with RNG. Our vision is to become the cleanest natural gas utility in America, and we will deliver 5% renewable gas by 2022, and reach 20% renewable gas by 2030 delivered in our system.  Delivering RNG to Customers  In 2018, RNG produced from organic waste by CR&R Environmental Services in Riverside County started flowing into SoCalGas' pipelines to be used by CR&R's fleet. Additionally, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) announced seven dairy projects, representing 45 dairies, will begin producing RNG for pipeline delivery. This year, we began receiving RNG from Calgren's dairy  waste digester facility in the Central Valley. 2019 Clean Energy Roadmap  SoCalGas has developed a 2019 roadmap to further reduce emissions in the gas supply. Our focus iso on engaging state regulators and legislators to develop and implement policies that create positive  results by:  Seeking a RNG procurement target, like the requirements for electric utilities to procure a set Submitting a CPUC filing to provide customers who would like to receive RNG the option of Engaging in a building decarbonization proceeding to reinforce how RNG can help reduce Sponsoring a bill to have an independent third-party study the impacts on the pipeline system of using low- or zero-carbon hydrogen to displace traditional fossil gas. The bill would then direct the CPUC to implement standards for injecting hydrogen into the system, based on Supporting a bill that would incentivize the use of RNG in buildings to reduce greenhouse  percentage of energy from renewables.  purchasing a portion of their gas from renewable sources. greenhouse gas emissions from energy use in buildings.  study findings.  gas emissions from space and water heating.  More to Come  The 2019 Roadmap is part of our strategy to help California meet its climate change goals and We look forward to working collaboratively with stakeholders to help advance a balanced energy approach to thet future California energy system. We hope you will stay engaged on issues that may SoCalGas remains committed to providing customers affordable, safe, reliable service with an  supports our vision to be the cleanest natural gas utility in North America.  impact your community, your business or your constituents. increasing emphasis on renewable natural gas.    Building Decarbonization  SoCalGas : Sempral Energy utility*  Addressing Building Emissions  State regulators at the California Public Utilities Commission have launched a proceeding to determine howi to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings to meet state climate goals. The proceeding has far-reaching implications for our choice of the energy and appliances we use, for While there are a number of different ways to reduce building emissions, some state legislators and regulators are advancing a singular pathway called electrification. Electrification means converting all existing natural gas end uses in buildings to electricity, including space and water heating, Those supporting electrification contend that, since electricity is increasingly generated with renewable resources, it is the only power source that should be available to consumers. This approach is too simplistic and not likely to be successful in achieving California's goal of carbon SoCalGas, consumer and business advocacy groups support a more balanced approach to building decarbonization that considers the environment, customer choice, affordability and reliability. We feel that the State should use all the resources and tools it has available to address climate change. SoCalGas, along with academics and researchers, believe that byi introducing renewable natural gas into the existing pipeline system (and in the future, carbon-neutral hydrogen), we can decarbonize buildings while preserving customer choice and making sure that every family can afford California's Renewable natural gas is produced from renewable resources, such as landfills and waste water treatment plants, as well as biomass sources, including animal waste, crop residue and food waste. Collecting gas from these sources to create renewable fuel puts organic waste to beneficial use and reduces traditional fossil fuel use. Renewable natural gas is also complementary to other renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, since it is available day and night to make the entire energy IfSoCalGas replaces just 16 to 20 percent. of traditional fossil natural gas with renewable gas resources, it would be up to 21 to 31 times more cost effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions than electrification. This would help keep energy affordable. And it would be less disruptive for customers. They could continue to use the kind of energy they prefer. Customers also would not  energy affordability and reliability.  cooking, and commercial and industrial equipment.  neutrality by 2045.  Renewable Natural Gas: Cost-Effective Decarbonization  clean energy future.  system cleaner and more reliable.  have to make electrical upgrades or replace appliances or equipment.  Advancing Balanced, Inclusive Policies  We believe state regulators should strike a balance and pursue more inclusive solutions that address climate change through use of renewable electricity, renewable natural gas, natural gas,  hydrogen and fuel cells.    Thel Honorable Gavin Newsom Governor, State of California State Capitol, First Floor Sacramento, CAS 95814 Dear Governor Newsom,  Thank you for your commitment to improving California's environment. We agree that California should lead in the fight against climate change. However, we are concerned about recent comments bys some elected leaders and state regulators indicating a preference for a single solutioni to achieve California's carbon neutrality policies. The State of California is al leader int the fight against climate change, but we can only lead if others follow. As such our policies should continue to focus on1 traditional renewables with solar and wind but alsoi include cost-effective emission reductions whichi include investments in California's climate goals are bold and reaching them will require unprecedented levels of collaboration. As you know, there is no silver bullet approach to achieving economy-wide carbon neutrality. Our cities are eager to help your administration reachi fort that aggressive goal, but we are concerned that additional mandates on new or existing housing may overburden already stretched homeowners and renters and make it even more difficult for cities to achieve the state's affordable housing goals. We believe California should pursue al balanced, inclusive andi technology-neutral approach to protecting the environment. Our state's environmental challenges and goals are as diverse as our cities and communities. That is why it is paramount that local governments be able to participate in developing and deploying viable, affordable solutions to climate change that every one of our As a former Mayor we are certain you will agree that climate change is one of many concerns facing residents in our cities. Increasing costs for housing and rising energy bills are also top concerns and we must be sure that we provide residents across our state with affordable energy options that can also The energy that millions of families depend on to heat their homes and cook their food is a necessity, As local government leaders, we: support the following principles to guide balanced, effective solutions  renewable natural gas, hydrogen and other cleani fuels.  communities can embrace.  help California meeti its climate goals.  not al luxury and providing cost effective options is essential.  to reduce emissions:  Technology-neutra support for innovation in all forms of renewable energy Preserving choice, minimizing disruption and maintaining affordability for consumers Including local government to ensure the diverse needs of our communities are considered Protecting. jobs andI local economies as we transition to a clean energy future    We are excited to be a part of California's planf for an inclusive, clean energy future that meets the needs of our communities. We thank you fory your leadership and believe your vision ofa "California for All"  includes clean, affordable energy for all.  Respectfully,  Shaww  Gplr Acquanetta Warren Mayor, City of Fontana Pargaut Margaret Clark Mayor, City ofF Rosemead 8 Jorge Morales Mayor, City of South Gate  aidgaln Dave Shawver Mayor, City of Stanton Miy Patrick. J. Furey Mayor, City of Torrance %o Bob! Link Mayor, City of Visalia  Clarke  u  CC: Ms. Rachel Wagoner, Deputy Legislative Secretary, Governor's Office  The Honorable Michael Picker, President, California Public Utilities Commission The Honorable Martha Guzman. Aceves, Commissioner, California Public Utilities Commission The Honorable Liane M. Randolph, Commissioner, California Public Utilities Commission The Honorable Clifford Rechtschaffen, Commissioner, California Public Utilities Commission The Honorable Genevieve Shiroma, Commissioner, California Public Utilities Commission Mr. Edward Randolph, Deputy Executive Director, California Public Utilities Commission Ms. Alice Stebbins, Director, Energy Division, California Public Utilities Commission    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory  Global Security Principal Directorate  David Hochschild, Chair Andrew McAllister, Commissioner California Energy Commission 1516 Ninth Street Sacramento California, 95814  June 215t, 2019  Re: The Natural Gas Infrastructure and Decarbonization Targets 19-MISC-03)  Dear Chair Hochschild and Commissioner McAllister,  The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Commission's recent workshop (June 6th, 2019) and proceeding on the natural gas infrastructure and decarbonization targets. LLNL believes that there may be important benefits to the state from achieving a low- or zero-carbon gas system. California's economic and climate goals may be best served by a combination of electrification and dramatic reductions int the carbon intensity oft the existing gas  network. About LLNL  For more than 60 years, LLNL has applied science and technology to make the worlda safer place. LLNL's defining responsibility is ensuring the safety, security and reliability of the nation's nuclear deterrent. Yet LLNL's mission is broader than stockpile stewardship, as dangers ranging from nuclear proliferation and terrorism to energy: shortages and climate change threaten national security and global stability. Our mission is to strengthen the United States' security through development and application of world- class science and technology to enhance the nation's defense, reduce the global threat from terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, and respond with vision, quality, integrity and technical excellence to scientific issues of national importance.  Introduction  Climate change poses a real threat to California and the nation. The state has adopted ambitious policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Notably, the state has  undertaken to:  Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 (SB32,2016)  Recycle 7600-61230  An Equal Opportunity Employer Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC Operated for the US Department of Energy P.O. Box 808 Livermore, California 94551-0808 Telephone (925) 422-1100* http://www. linl. gov    Source 100% of retail electricity sales to California end-use customers and electricity procured to serve all state agencies from renewable energy resources Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050 (Executive Achieve economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2045 (Executive Order B-55-18,  and zero-carbon resources by 2045 (SB100, 2018)  Order S-3-05, 2005) 2018)  Iti is firmly established that meeting these goals will require a broad set oft tools and technologies, very likely also including technologies that have not yet been proven or deployed widely today. .1,21 Int this vein, the state has come to consider the appropriate Even though fossil natural gas is less carbon intensive than oil and coal, it still contains carbon, and the associated emissions at today's levels are inconsistent with California's climate goals, both from a statutory perspective and from a climate perspective. However, there are control technologies as well as other pathways for producing and using methane that could render its use consistent with these goals. Furthermore, there are compelling reasons as to why an affirmative drive to phase out all existing natural gas infrastructure would bei ill advised from a climate mitigation standpoint. We expand Expanding the Supply and Use of RNG and Hydrogen by Leveraging Natural Gas  future fori its natural gas infrastructure.  on these below focusing on key sectors in turn.  Infrastructure  Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is methane that is generated from degradation of organic waste. Iti is sometimes regarded as a niche option in the decarbonization portfolio in California, due toi its limited supply. California currently has the largest RNG potential in the United States and also has the largest number of natural gas refueling stations-a number that is predicted to rise.3 Current estimates of RNG supply for California in 2030  1"Deep Decarbonization in al High Renewables Future Updated Results from the California PATHWAYS IApba/0BCSDeR Decarbonization in a High Renewables Future CEC-500-2018-012- 2"Optionality, Flexibility & Innovation- Pathways For Deep Decarbonization In California", Energy Futures https//staticl.squarespace-comstate/8ec123cp3db2bd948057628/15ced6ir5i5ic0b190b60cd2/1559 3"TheF Feasibility of Renewable Natural Gas asa al Large-Scale, Low Carbon Substitute", Amy Myers Jaffe, UC Davis-https/Istepsucdavsedu/hefeasilly-otrenewable-naturalsasasalarge-scale-scale-low-carbon-  Model", CEC-500-2018-012, June 2018: tphwwathgeconwpe  1.pdf  Initiative (EFI), May 2019:  064542876/EFI CA Decarbonization Full.pdf  substitutel  UNLMI7817DRAFT    are around 200 billion cubic feet per year,"comprising about 10% of 2016 consumption However, there are ways to significantly expand its supply beyond small applications like dairy digesters and landfill gas capture. Specifically, excess renewable power could be converted to RNG through methanation, or hydrogen through electrolysis. Several power-to-gas projects have demonstrated the technical feasibility of this today.sIn addition, steam methane reforming can produce carbon-neutral hydrogen if process emissions are captured and geologically stored,7c or even result in the removal of CO2 Existing natural gas distribution infrastructure could also provide a platform to broaden the use of carbon-neutral or carbon-negative RNG. Renewable methane could replace fossil methane directly. In addition, hydrogen could be blended into existing natural gas distribution systems with little modification, or even completely replace fossil methane with larger modlfiations"Scrapping the existing natural gas infrastructure would preclude both of these pathways. For reasons that we outline below, we consider this  (2trillion cubic feet).5  from the atmosphere if the methane source is biogenic.  ill-advised at this point in time.  The Role and Future of Natural Gas in Electricity Production Emissions from natural gas generation can be dramatically reduced  Itisi incorrect to assume that natural gas electricity generation has no rolei to play in a high-renewables, low carbon world. Such a view ignores key technological and economic dimensions. Current emission rates from single- and combined-cycle gas plants are inconsistent with mid-century climate stabilization and California's own goals. However, carbon capture and (geologic) storage of carbon dioxide (CCS) can significantly reduce or eliminate emissions from such plants. The technology for retrofitting existing plants (amine scrubbing) is available today.? We expect technological, efficiency and costi improvements to follow these first-generation retrofit solutions. New systems are  4EFI,2019.  SData from the United States Energy Information Administration: htps/Pwww.ehso/dnav/nghis/nal490. sca 2a.htm  European Power to Gas Platform: http:leuropeanpowertogas.com/prolects-in-urope 7The Port Arthur projecti in Texas has already successfully demonstrated the retrofitting of an existing steam methane reformer with carbon capture and geologic sequestration. See: Preston, Carolyn. (2018). 2018-05 The CCS Project at Air Products' Port Arthur Hydrogen Production Facility. 81 "Blending Hydrogen into Natural Gas Pipeline Networks: A Review of Key Issues", M. W. Melaina etal., tDS/wwwAsneryoVPV/Als/oans2014/03/11/plending h2 nat gas pipeline.pdf Several technology vendors will provide suchs systems, with commercial performance warrantees.  Technical Report NREL/TP. 5600-51995, March 2013:  LINLM278317-DRAFT    also being tested that could dramatically change the power generation paradigm, resulting in competitive, low/zero-carbon dispatchable electricity." 10 Dispatchable, zero-carbon electricity can aid higher renewables penetration, reduce In order for a high degree of renewable penetration to be both technically feasible and affordable, the variability of wind and: solar electricity generation must be managed. While several storage and other grid management options are available, the most economical pathway appears to be a generation mix that also includes small amounts of firm low-carbon sources such as natural gas and biofuels. Modeling by E3 indicates that such a system for California would feature 17-35 MW of natural gas generation.11 This finding supports nationaly-applicable conclusions by Sepulveda et al. that the inclusion of firm low carbon sources reduces the cost of electricity by 10-60% in ai fully decarbonized system. 12 According to their study, as CO2 emissions approachzero, the cost of decarbonization increases non-linearly due to the necessary buildout of solar and wind to meet peak electricity demand during periods of low generation. Significantly more renewable energy must be produced and stored to match the power capacity in firm low carbon sources. Wind and: solar generation plus storage capacity would need to be! 5-81 times peak demand. When natural gas or biofuels are included the installed generation would only need to be 1-2 times peak demand. The extensive build out of renewables would require 60-130% of total annual national electricity generation to be curtailed. The corresponding figure for California was estimated by E3 to be! 50%.13 Natural gas also reduces the need for energy storage by allowing for dispatchable generation on a daily or seasonal basis. Though technically feasible, an electric grid comprised of renewables and al large storage resource would be subject to higher costs. According to the Clean Air Task Force, in a 100% renewable plus storage scenario, 36.4 million MWh of energy storage would be needed in California. 14 Battery technologies show diminishing returns at highi inclusion levels in the grid. Large capital investments  costs and: safeguard grid stability  10Ane example ist the Allam cycle technology currently being tested by NET Power.  11"Long-Run Resource Adequacy under Deep Decarbonization Pathways for California", E3, June 2019: htps//www.ethree.ompronten/peads2019/06/B) Long Run Resource Adequacy CA Deep: 12A. Sepulveda, Nestor & D.. Jenkins, Jesse &J J. de Sisternes, Fernando & K. Lester, Richard. (2018). The Role of Firml Low- Carbon Electricity Resources in Deep Decarbonization of Power Generation. Joule. 2. 14 "The $2.5t trillion reason we can'trely on batteries to clean up the grid",J.Temple, MIT Technology Review, Jul27,2018: https/www.techntechnologyreview.com//611683/he25-tillon-reason-we-cant-rely-  Decarbonization Final.pdf 101016pue201808006. 13E E3, June: 2019.  on-batteries-to-clean-up-the-grid    are neededi to build sufficient storage that will have minimal year-round utilization, simply to be able to cope with the relatively scarce periods ofl low generation. Since natural gas and biofuels are easily transportable and storable, they are available upon demand where needed, and can help provide operational flexibility and load- following capabilities that help maintain grid reliability and facilitate growth of intermittent renewables. This can ease the burden on Demand Response, which is estimated to be required on the order of 22 GWh of energy shifting alongside 11 GWo of shedding by 2030.15 A hedged approach of not relying on a single resource or technique would alleviate outcome risks and almost overall costs at the same time.  Decarbonizing Large Industrial Applications  In California, the industrial sector accounts for one-fifth oft the state's greenhouse gas emissions as it produces materials like plastics, fertilizers and cement. Decarbonizing the industrial sector is challenging, as there are uses that demand large amounts of energy, often in the form of heat, that cannot be electrified in a practical way or made more efficient. Full electrification of other processes could increase electricity demands by 4-6 The most economical pathway to reduce such industrial emissions is through a portfolio of decarbonizing technologies that include electrification, renewable natural gas, hydrogen, and carbon capture utilization and storage. Fuel switch to renewable natural gas, hydrogen, or electricity is a viable option that can significantly reduce emissions. Specifically, renewable natural gas can be a substitute for natural gas to reduce the carbon footprint of these industries without offshoring these industries and their emissions. The current natural gas infrastructure can be readily adapted to carry renewable natural gas with minimal infrastructure modifications..7 Fori many carbon-emitting California industries there are limited viable options for reducing their carbon emissions without completely reconstructing thei industry- = which could easily result in those industries being moved out of state. Cement making is an obvious example, but all industries that use. significant amounts of heat face thisi issue. Developing low-carbon gas systems could solve those problems in ways that would minimize capital expenditure within the industry, while making possible a gradual transition that maintains jobs and capability without offshoring carbon emissions.  fold.16  15EF1,2019.  161 "Decarbonization ofi industrial sectors: The next frontier", McKinzey & Company, A. de Pee et al., June 2018: https/www.mckinses/.com/ndustiesoOllandsaslourinsght/dearboniattion-olindustrial-  ector-thenext-frontuer 17 NREL, 2013.    Decarbonizing the Transportation Sector  The transportation sector is responsible for the largest share of CO2 emissions in California, emitting "40% of the State's greenhouse gas emissions. 18 Heavy-duty vehicles inj particular comprise "22% of vehicle transport19 and are more difficult to decarbonize through electrification for a variety of reasons. 20,21 Li-ion batteries have an order-of- magnitude lower energy density compared to gasoline and other liquid fuels, and as such heavy-hauling vehicles require massive batteries which can decrease payload. These vehicles are also run at more intensive utilization factors, making charging time a Advancements in battery technologies are ongoing, and: several all-electric heavy-duty vehicles are in development today. Nonetheless, we cannot reliable predict the pace of economic electrification of heavy-duty vehicles. To complement thet transition toa lower-carbon heavy-duty fleet, RNG can be used to drive down emissions using existing technologies, and can even serve as a retrofit solution on existing diesel vehicles. RNG can also replace fossil LNG and CNG in natural gas vehicles without modification. Existing natural gas pipeline and fueling infrastructure, coupled with RNG supply, could therefore serve as another tool for reducing emissions from the state's transportation  bigger factor than in light-duty vehicles.  sector.  The Right Path for the Building and Residential Sector  California's buildings contribute to 9.2% of California's greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from fossil natural gas used in space/water heating and cooking. 22 California's residential sector is highly reliant on natural gas: 88% of homes consume natural gas, with 2/3 of homes using natural gas for space heating, 84%1 for water heating. 23 Int total, 8million furnaces in California consumed 172 billion cubic feet of natural gas.24  18 "California Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory- 2018 Edition", California. Air Resources Board: https/www.arb.caov/e/nventony/data/lata.htm 19 EFI2019, compiled using data from CARB, 2018. 20 "Comparing the powertrain energy and power densities of electric and gasoline vehicles", R. Vijayagopal, Argonne National Laboratory, 20J July 2016: htp/wow.umrdwmchehtechitse/RamuIsoPANL PTS21.2016.pdf 21" "Electrification Futures Study: End-Use Electric Technology Cost and Performance Projections through 2050", P.J Jadun et al., National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 2017: tps/wwwnegovdosMlBot/0Bsndt 22 EFI, 2019, compiled from CARB, 2018. 23 EFI, 2019, citing IEA, 2009. 24 EFI, 2019, citing IEA, 2009.  UNLMI7317-DRAFT    E3'sp presentation at the. Jun6th, 2019 workshop indicated that full electrification of California's buildings may be the lowest cost option to reduce associate emissions. We do not question that conclusion, but note that factors other than cost may affect While new buildings are most easily electrified, current buildings are reliant on natural gas and would require replacement of existing equipment for electrification. Residential natural gas equipment can have al lifetime of decades. Replacing it with electrically powered equipment may also require electrical wiring upgrades. Also, consumer choice may affect the pace and degree ofe electrification: while some consumers may not favor gas over electric water heaters, preference for gas over electric cooking stoves may be Furthermore, until electricity is completely decarbonized (current state target is 2045), full electrification of buildings does not reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero. The emissions from current residential natural gas demand could be significantly reduced while maintaining current residential infrastructure by blending RNG into the natural gas supply. For example, EFI, using data from Navigant predicts that in 2030 CA has enough RNG: supply potential to provide at least 23% of total natural gas used in buildings. 25  complete electrification in a suitable timeframe.  particularly: strong.  Conclusion and Recommendations  Ins summary, there are up-sides to maintaining existing natural gas infrastructure that cut across many: sectors. Several of these sectors are particularly challenging to decarbonize, such as heavy-duty vehicle transportation and large-scale industrial heat. Even for sectors and applications that are technologically more straightforward and cheaper to electrify, such as residential heating or cooking, there are merits to allowing Ini the comments above we have singled out some of the challenges that are inherent in the most commonly touted alternative to natural gasi infrastructure: electrification. We do presuppose that these challenges cannot be overcome from at technological, economic or logistical standpoint, nor that they are unique to electrification. In fact, the existing natural gas infrastructure suffers from problems of its own, such as the need for ongoing maintenance and the well-documented presence of methane leaks, which lead to potent climate forcing. We are also aware that maintaining existing gas infrastructure relies on contributions from ratepayers (although it is not clear that such contributions could readily be diverted in their entirety towards electrification efforts - SO the inherent degree of "tension" between the two approaches is debatable).  multiple lines of attack.  25EF1,2019 (p.215).  LINLM1-73172DRAFT    Rather, we contend that striving to predict the shortcomings, likely uptake levels and costs of each approach is wrought with problems and uncertainty, and that a strategy that hedges against the risks of coming up short on emission reductions does not pre- select a single winner to the exclusion of all other contributors, but instead banks ona To that effect, setting sectoral performance standards or emission reduction goals and letting all mitigations options compete and contribute would promote the largest levels of decarbonization while minimizing the risk of failure to achieve the desired emissions outcome. No matter how rigorous a modeling exercise may be at this point in time, we are dealing with a complex system with an inherent degree of uncertainty. A performance-based approach would be more robust in thet face oft the economic and technological uncertainty factors presenti int this area.26 An example of such a policy is California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard, which sets declining carbon intensity targets for the state's fuels sector. The approach and policy could be replicated for the buildings sector, or fori industrial applications and emissions, for example. We thank the Commission for taking a close look at this important topic.  portfolio of possible solutions.  Respectfully submitted,  George Peridas, Director, Carbon Management Partnerships, peridas1@linl.gov  Sarah Baker, Staff Chemist, baker740lInl.gov Felicia Lucci, Post-Doctoral Researcher, luccil@lInl.gov  07NA27344.1 Thiso nora lisclosed, purposes.  LLC, fortheu.s. States government. Neithert ofEnergy, thel Uniteds NationalN States Nudear Security norl Lawrencet under LivermoreN ContractDE-AC52- Nationals Security,Lc, vrence States governm National Security, LG,a andsh shalln notbe usedfor LLC.T Thevi orp producte ando opinionsof endorsement  fort thea accuracy, product, completeness,  trademark, apparatus,  jonotr  26 "Decision Making under Deep Uncertainty: From Theoryt to Practice", V. A.W.J. Marchau et al., 2019:  https/linkspringer.om/content/pd/10100/82E978308-3-030-05252-2pdr  LLNL-MI- -778317-DRAFT    ITEM 10A  6 6    888 8 8888 08 8 3888888888888 888 8 000 o o o o o o o 0000000000000 000 o  00000000 0888888    888 8 88888 8 8888888888888888888888888888888888 000 o o 00 o o o 0000066000000G006600066060000000    500  8118 SS BA I 5E  888888888 888 8 d8 8 888 8888 8 8888 00 888 888888 000000000 000 o o o 000 0000 o o o o o 000 o o o 000  O4  58  amgner  088  3  80    888888 8 d8 d8 000000 o o o  88888 8        888 d8 8 000 o    888 8 888 888888888 8 00 000 o 000 000000000 o  00000000000    8888 d0 8 88 8 0000 o o o o  S  00  9 00            ITEM 10B  MINUTES OF THE FOWLER CITY COUNCIL MEETING  SEPTEMBERI 17,2019  Mayor Cardenas called the meeting to order at 7:00 p. m. Roll call was taken. Councilmembers Present: Cardenas, Hammer, Kazarian, Parra, Rodriquez  City Staff Present:  City Manager/City Clerk Davis, City Attorney Cross, Sergeant Duron, Public Works Supervisor/Fire Chief Lopez, Deputy City  Clerk Burrola  The Flag Salute and Pledge of Allegiance were followed by ai moment of silence and reflection.  PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS There were no public presentations. COMMUNICATIONS  City Manager Davis mentioned Fresno County will be having a household hazardous waste drop off event for Fowler residents, Saturday, October 19, 2019. The site for this event is yet to be  determined. STAFF REPORT  DISCUSSION/DIRECTION TO VOTING DELEGATE AT THE LEAGUE ANNUAL City Manager Davis said annually the Council selects a Voting Delegate and Alternate for the business meeting to be held at the upcoming League Annual Conference in Long Beach. The Council received aj packet ofinformation regarding two resolutions that will be considered. The first resolution calling on the California Public Utilities Commission to amend Rule 20A to add projects in very high fire hazard severity zones to the list of eligibility criteria and to increase funding allocations for Rule 20A projects; the second resolution is a resolution calling upon the Federal and State Governments to address the devastating impacts ofinternational transboundary pollution flows into the Southern most regions of California and the Pacific Ocean. After discussion, the consensus oft the Council was that the voting delegate vote in support oft the  CONFERENCE CONCERNING BUSINESS MEETING RESOLUTIONS  resolutions at the League Annual Conference. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT  City Manager Davis said they met with Tom Buford regarding his proposed project and discussed traffic mitigation measures and costs. There was a discrepancy on what Caltrans originally estimated for the project. A meeting with Caltrans will be scheduled to discuss the project further.  PUBLIC WORKS REPORT  Public Works Supervisor Lopez circulated the Landscape District Assessments for the past few months. He said the production in water conservation is down. The banner poles have been placed  at Panzak Park.    He said the City's Code Enforcement officer has been in contact with the owner of the old Fowler Ensign building on Merced Street. The owner, Mr. Renge, has hired an architect and has plans to  rent the building.  FINANCE DIRECTOR'S REPORT  Noi report was given.  POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT  Sergeant Duron circulated Part 1 Crime Stats for the month of August.  FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT No report was given.  CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT No report was given. CONSENT CALENDAR  The consent calendar consisted of: A) Ratification of Warrants - September 17, 2019; B). Approve Minutes of the City Council Meeting - September 3, 2019 and City Council Special Meeting September 10, 2019. Councilmember Kazarian made a motion to approve the consent calendar, seconded by Councilmember Parra. The motion carried by voice vote: Ayes: Cardenas, Hammer,  Kazarian, Parra, Rodriquez. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.  COMMITTEE REPORTS  Mayor Cardenas attended a Mosquito Abatement District meeting, it was reported that Fresno County had more cases of the West Nile virus this year. There have been a few cases here in Mayor Pro Tem Hammer said the Tour-de Fresno bike event is scheduled this Saturday, September 14, 2019. The Fowler Farmers Market is in its eighth week and attendance has been great, families are enjoying the weekly outing. Truck or Treat will be held on October 30, 2019. The Edwin Blyney Senior Center will be providing free flu shots to the public of all ages on October 1, 2019 Councilmember Kazarian attended a GSA meeting. He reported that the draft ground water Councilmember Parra attended a LAFcO meeting; he has been selected as next year's new Vice- Councilmember Rodriquez and Councilmember Parra met with City Engineer Peters and Mike Leonardo regarding the Golden State Corridor Improvement project, there were additional savings from not doing the shift; it was made clear that the extra monies would not be used for the project.  Fowler; he expressed the need on taking preventive steps.  from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  sustainability plan is being circulated for public review.  Chairman.    CLOSED SESSION  The meeting adjourned to a closed session at 7:32 p.m. pursuant to Government Code Section 54957: Public Employee Apointmen/emp.oyment Title: Public Works Director: and Government Code Section 54957 Public Employee Performance Evaluation. Title: City Manager The meeting reconvened to open session at 8:30 p.m. with no reportable action taken.  ADJOURNMENT  Having no further business, Councilmember Kazarian made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Parra. The motion carried and the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.    ITEM 10C  MEMORANDUM  TO: FROM: DATE: CC:  MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL DAVID PETERS, CITY ENGINEER  SUBJECT: ACCEPTANCE OF 2019 STREETMAINTENANCE PROJECT  OCTOBER1 1,2019  MANUELLOPEZ- - PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR  REQUESTED ACTION/RECOMMENDATION  Accept the City of Fowler 2019 Street Maintenance Project constructed by Asphalt Maintenance Co. and authorize the City Engineer to file the Notice of Completion.  DISCUSSION  The City Council previously awarded a contract to Asphalt Maintenance Co. for construction of the 2019 Street Maintenance Project. The project was constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and the Public Works Department staff. The one-year warranty period will begin upon the fling of the Notice of Completion, which will follow the Council's acceptance of the project.