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.
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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.
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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