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2014-12-17 Green Vernon Commission MinutesMINUTES OF THE REGULAR GREEN VERNON COMMISSION MEETING HELD WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY HALL LOCATED AT 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA MEMBERS PRESENT: David Honda, Michael Gavina, Hector Garcia, Armando Espinoza, and Peter Corselli MEMBERS ABSENT: Jaime Villanueva and Jim Andreoli The meeting was called to order at 3:32 p.m. by Chairperson Honda; Vice Chairperson Gavina led the flag salute. CHANGES TO THE AGENDA It was confirmed that there are no changes to the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENT Commission Director Leonard Grossberg announced that this was the time allotted for public comment and inquired whether anyone in the audience wished to address the Commission. No one responded. MINUTES – To be received and filed. 1. Minutes of the Regular Green Vernon Commission Meeting held September 17, 2014. 2. Minutes of the Special Green Vernon Commission Meeting held November 12, 2014. It was moved by Gavina and seconded by Corselli to receive and file the Minutes listed above. Motion carried, 5-0. DISCUSSION ITEM 3. Discussion regarding proposed Rule 415 – Odors from Rendering Facilities. Commission Director Leonard Grossberg presented on the proposed Rule 415. Commissioner Garcia further reported on the proposed Rule, the potential challenges for businesses, and on the public meetings held by Air Quality Management District (“AQMD”). Grossberg stated his concerns regarding the proposed Rule. Green Vernon Commission Meeting Minutes December 17, 2014 Page 2 of 3 Chairperson Honda inquired whether there was a Legislator or legislation behind the Rule. Commissioner Corselli too sought information on its origin and whether there are any health concerns. He further inquired on the City’s position. Grossberg advised that the City has provided comments on the matter and further spoke on potential solutions. Chairperson Honda recommended that the City seek the help of a Senator. Commissioner Garcia recommended an odor mitigation plan which will address the concerns, yet be tailored to each business. Commissioner Corselli expressed his concerns on whether the proposed Rule will facilitate AQMD to go after other types of businesses. Commissioner Garcia inquired whether a subcommittee would be appropriate as he has many concerns. He expressed a need for urgency. Chairperson Honda opened for public comment. Jeff Wilson of Baker Commodities stated that the proposed Rule is overly broad, burdensome, and costly to businesses. He noted that each affected facility is very different. Wilson echoed the concerns expressed by the Commission. Marisa Olguin of the Vernon Chamber of Commerce reported on the impact to businesses outside of Vernon. If the concern is odor nuisance, then other business who also emit odors may be targeted in the future. Olguin is in favor of a customized approach, and companies are receptive to dealing with the odor concerns. Olguin expressed the Chamber’s concerns on the effects of the proposed Rule on interdependent businesses. She also explained that the affected businesses produce resources that are used to make other products. The potential impact is not being considered. Chris Hesler of Baker Commodities reported on the complaints received by AQMD associated with the odor concerns and noted that only one violation was issued over the last 10 years. In response to Chairperson Honda, Hesler advised that the information is available on AQMD’s website. ORAL REPORTS 4. Report on current sustainability projects in Vernon (solar projects). Commission Director Leonard Grossberg reported on sustainability projects in Vernon. Green Vernon Commission Meeting Minutes December 17, 2014 Page 3 of 3 Commissioner Corselli advised that he’d like an opportunity to work with Vernon Gas & Electric Department and change the current model. 5. Report on the recent site tour of Jawbone Canyon. Commission Director Leonard Grossberg conducted the oral report noting that there is potential for an alternative energy resource. 6. Brief reports on activities, other brief announcements, and directives to staff. With no further business, at 4:08 p.m. it was moved Corselli and seconded by Espinoza to adjourn the meeting, Motion carried, 5-0. ________________________ David Honda Chairperson ATTEST: _________________________ Maria E. Ayala Secretary