Marco A. Elizarraras

The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) serves as a 20-year roadmap to guide the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power in transforming its power system. Key objectives include eliminating coal power by 2025, achieving 50% renewable energy by 2030, attaining 15% energy efficiency by 2020, and enhancing system reliability through repowering and infrastructure investments. The plan also explores pathways to a 100% clean energy future, considering scenarios for fossil-free or greenhouse gas-neutral operations, with a focus on reliability, transmission, energy storage, and demand-side management, all while striving to maintain affordable rates and address environmental goals. This is a living document, updated annually, that incorporates public review and feedback.

The board received a presentation regarding a proposed rate increase to support a five-year budget and associated revenue requirements. Key discussion topics included an independent analysis of financial needs, the strategy for extensive community engagement and public communication, and the status of the current customer billing system. The board reviewed the necessity of capital investments for infrastructure replacement, compliance with renewable energy mandates, and the shift away from coal-burning power plants. The presentation emphasized the need for a dialogue with customers and stakeholders regarding these changes and demonstrated new tools for transparency, including a dedicated website and informational videos.

The special board meeting commenced with roll call confirming a quorum. Key procedural points involved deferring agenda items N6 and N24. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, featuring discussions on significant billing issues, including a resident receiving an excessive bill due to a malfunctioning meter over five years, which prompted the manager of customer relations to offer immediate assistance. Subsequent public comments centered heavily on congratulating President Richard Katz on his service and expressing strong support for the expansion of the Tilman Reclamation Facility. Speakers emphasized that this expansion and the resulting local water supply are critical for climate resilience and enabling the reduction of water diversions from Mono Lake to allow its elevation to recover to 6,392 feet. Advocates urged the commission to communicate this support to the State Water Resource Control Board.

This Water Infrastructure Plan outlines the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's (LADWP) goals and accomplishments for maintaining and operating its vast water system, encompassing an $8 billion five-year capital plan. It details strategic objectives across key infrastructure components, including distribution mainlines, trunk lines, large valves, reservoirs, dams, tanks, treatment facilities, pump stations, pressure regulators, and water meters, as well as the Los Angeles Aqueduct System. The plan focuses on ensuring the delivery of high-quality water, systematically managing assets through an Asset Management Program, and enhancing overall system reliability and resilience.

The meeting included opening remarks by the Commission President, recognizing Commissioner Lehrer's work on the So-Fi Stadium. The General Manager reported on Black History Month celebrations, Lunar New Year events, and upcoming Women's History Month activities. Discussions covered the Red Cloud Wind Project in New Mexico, LA100 Equity strategies, and participation in the Canadian Water and Road Show 2022. The Board approved a Communications Use Lease with the Bureau of Land Management and authorized the issuance of Power System Revenue Bonds. Presentations were given on the John Ferraro Building Reconsolidation Update, Return to Office Update, and Customer Assistance and State Relief Funds Update. The meeting also included a closed session to discuss existing and anticipated litigation.