FROM: Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
SUBJECT:
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LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF JULY 2024
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GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
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RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of July 2024.
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BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San) legislative affairs program includes advocating for OC San’s legislative interests; sponsoring legislation (where appropriate); and seeking local, state, and federal funding for projects and programs.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
• Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
• Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
• Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators, stakeholders, and neighboring communities
PROBLEM
Without a strong advocacy program, elected officials may not be aware of OC San’s mission, programs, and projects and how they could be impacted by proposed legislation.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Continue to work with local, state, and federal officials to advocate for OC San’s legislative interests. Help to create and monitor legislation and grants that would benefit OC San, the wastewater industry, and the community. To assist in relationship building efforts, OC San will continue to reach out to elected officials through facility tours, one-on-one meetings, and trips to Washington D.C. and Sacramento.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
If OC San does not work with local, state, and federal elected officials, legislation could be passed that negatively affects OC San and the wastewater industry. Additionally, a lack of engagement may result in missed funding opportunities.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Activities in July:
• Save The Date: The State of OC San is scheduled for Friday, October 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mile Square Golf Course Clubhouse in Fountain Valley. The in-person event will host local, state, and federal dignitaries and provide updates on OC San’s accomplishments and future direction.
Activities in August:
• OC San staff and legislative consultants are currently reviewing the 2024 Legislative and Regulatory Plan to prepare for the 2025 Plan. This development incorporates feedback from resident experts, industry contacts, and the Board of Directors gathered over the past several months. The draft Plan will be presented to the Administration Committee in October.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package:
• Federal Legislative Update
• Federal Matrix
• State Legislative Update
• State Matrix