To: Sonoma County Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): County Administrator’s Office
Staff Name and Phone Number: Christel Querijero, 565-7071
Vote Requirement: Informational Only
Supervisorial District(s): All
Title:
Title
Recovery and Resiliency Update
End
Recommended Actions:
Recommended action
Receive an update on the status of recovery operations, planning, and external funding opportunities following recent disasters, including the 2019 Kincade Fire, 2017 Sonoma Complex Fires, and 2019 Winter Storm and Floods.
end
Executive Summary:
Office of Recovery and Resiliency staff provides the Board monthly updates on disaster recovery efforts, including building permits, external funding and grant efforts, and relevant legislation. Additional information covers the COVID-19 emergency, Kincade fire debris removal, 2017 Insurance Collection, and HMGP efforts.
Discussion:
To keep the Board and community informed about the County’s recovery efforts, the Office of Recovery and Resiliency (Office) prepares a monthly agenda item, typically included on the consent calendar. Monthly updates includes information on: Ongoing Recovery Efforts; Housing; Recovery Related External Funding Opportunities; and other items of interest. When additional disasters are experienced, updates are broadened to encompass additional recovery efforts.
This Recovery and Resiliency Update includes information on the 2019 Kincade Fire, 2017 Sonoma Complex Fires, and the 2019 Winter Storm and Floods. Separately, in depth funding updates are conducted by the Disaster Finance Team (DFT) which consists of CAO, ACTTC, and relevant department representatives. Most recently, on 11/19/2019, under the CAO’s leadership the DFT provided expenses incurred, project costs not yet incurred, and reimbursement eligibility from FEMA and Cal-OES. See <https://sonoma-county.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=4245333&GUID=13C81898-5587-4914-A162-58C0A370DD0D&Options=&Search>=
In 2020, the Office will present semi-annual and annual reports to the Board on the status of the implementation of the Recovery and Resiliency Framework following the 2017 Sonoma Complex Fires.
2020 COVID-19 Emergency
The declaration of a local health emergency by the Health Officer and the proclamation of a local emergency by the Director of Emergency Services began at approximately 10:00 a.m. on March 2, 2020 due to the potential introduction of COVID-19 into the County of Sonoma/Sonoma County Operational Area. Both the declaration by the Health Officer and the proclamation by the Director of Emergency Services were ratified by the Board of Supervisors on March 4, 2020.
On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern”. On January 31, 2020, the Secretary of the U.S. Health and Human declared a public health emergency (PHE) for the United States. The Governor of California proclaimed an emergency on March 5, 2020.
At the time of the declaration of local health emergency and the proclamation of local emergency on March 2, there were 86 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and two confirmed fatalities in the United States. At that time, there were two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Sonoma County. As of April 14, 2020, there were over 1.95 million cases with 70,600 associated deaths worldwide; 584,000 cases and 25,300 associated deaths in the United States; 24,300 cases and 900 associated deaths in California; and 152 cases (81 active, 69 recovered, and 2 associated deaths) in Sonoma County.
On March 10, 2020, your Board received and approved the Pandemic Annex to the Sonoma County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan developed by the Department of Emergency Management (DEM). The annex provides detailed guidance for response to a Pandemic event.
On April 14, 2020, your Board received a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update. The 90 Day estimated COVID-19 emergency response cost estimate for March 2 to June 1, 2020 included:
• $24.5 million County labor (Emergency Ops Center, Department Ops Center, Continuity of Operations Program)
• $18.6 million Services, supplies, contracts (detail next slide)
• $6.5 million Contingency (15%)
This was an estimated $49.6 million event cost for 90 days with $8.5 million spent to date ($6.5 million for Labor and $2.0 million expenses paid through COVID-19 Emergency Fund).
Cost recovery is still being determined but early estimates indicated $28.2 million may be reimbursable from FEMA/CalOES. Costs not eligible for FEMA/CalOES reimbursement may be covered by other COVID-19 funding sources (CARES Act).
Additionally, the April 14, 2020 update showed multiple County social media updates have been effective in providing information on the COVID-19 event. SoCoEmergency.org had 1,335,750 views from 3/11/20 to 4/9/20, Facebook had 298,092 visitors from 3/13/20 to 4/9/20 with 6,618 new followers in the last 28 days, YouTube had 6,877 views in the last 28 days, and Twitter had a top tweet of 21.5K impressions in the last 28 days. The Daily Updates from Dr. Mase had 8,500 viewers on Facebook Live and 2,500 viewers on YouTube, while the Town Halls had 12,000 viewers on the KRCB TV Broadcast and 2,500 listeners on KRCB FM Radio.
2019 Kincade Fire
Pacific Gas & Electric ("PG&E") instituted de-energization in the Sonoma County Operational Area beginning at approximately 2:15 PM on October 23, 2019, due to extreme fire danger weather, impacting 260,000 residents. In preparation, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at approximately 8:00 AM on Wednesday, October 23, 2019, to assist with managing the impacts of de-energization.
The Kincade Fire ignited around 9:00 PM on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 northeast of Geyserville, and burned until November 7, 2019. The fire was driven by high winds with the fire spreading rapidly, forcing the evacuation of over 190,000 residents, destroying 374 structures (174 homes, 11 commercial), damaging an additional 60 structures (34 residences), and burning 77,758 acres generally east of Geyserville, Healdsburg and Windsor and across to the Sonoma/Lake County line. A total of 21 evacuation shelters were set up and served 4,850 individuals, as well as pets and livestock.
The conditions created by the Kincade Fire were exacerbated by an unprecedented series of wind events-commencing on Tuesday, October 22, 2019, Saturday, October 26, 2019, and Tuesday, October 29, 2019, respectively-with historic maximum wind speeds and corresponding de-energization by PG&E of large portions of the electric grid in the Sonoma County Operational Area.
A local emergency proclamation was issued by the County Administrator on October 24, 2019 and ratified by the Board. In addition, on October 25, 2019, Governor Newson issued a state emergency proclamation for the counties of Sonoma and Los Angeles due to the effects of the Kincade and Tick fires.
To protect residents from hazardous debris exposure after a wildfire, the Sonoma County Health Officer Dr. Celeste Philip issued an order on November 1, 2019 advising community members to refrain from entering the burn footprint without personal protective equipment. On November 5, 2019, the Board of Supervisors passed an emergency ordinance requiring authorization from the Department of Health Services, Environmental Health, prior to commencing debris removal work.
1. Debris Removal
Before the fire was extinguished, the County started working closely with State partners to plan for fire debris removal. As a result of the Proclamation of a Local Health Emergency, the County, through the Debris Removal Task Force, entered into an emergency contract with NRC to perform Household Hazardous Waste sweeps on all burned parcels for a cost not-to-exceed $750,000. The clean-up was completed on February 13, 2020. The contract is being managed by Transportation & Public Works and the contract work is being managed by Fire Prevention/Permit Sonoma. The contract will be paid out of the Kincade Disaster Fund, and should qualify as a reimbursable expense.
Sonoma County Environmental Health is managing the second step of fire debris removal and assisting property owners with this process. Following the Household Hazardous Waste sweeps, property owners must submit to Environmental Health an application and plan to remove debris prior to commencing the work. The deadline for submission of an application and plan was January 31, 2020. Outreach to property owners has consisted of telephone calls, emails, social media messaging, and U.S. Postal mailings. As of March 2, 2020, 30 properties (out of 204) have not submitted a plan and/or an application. Follow-up mailings have been sent to those 30 property owners. As of March 3, 2020, 21 properties have cleaned all debris and are approved for rebuilding efforts to begin.
All cleanup activities must be completed pursuant to standards set forth by the County to ensure the protection of public health. Documentation of adequate clean-up and proper disposal is required. All debris must be removed and soil sampling completed by May 15, 2020.
Property owners who have not yet submitted debris removal paperwork can still download a Debris Removal Application form at <SoCoEmergency.org/Recover> and contact Environmental Health for assistance at 707-565-6700 or ehdebrisremoval@sonoma-county.org <mailto:ehdebrisremoval@sonoma-county.org>. Additional information about Debris Removal Requirements and a Debris Removal Completion Certification information is also posted on this site.
Sonoma County Environmental Health and CalRecycle held a Debris Removal Training for contractors, waste haulers, and property owners on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 to provide information about the debris removal process. A recording of this training is posted at <SoCoEmergency.org/Recover>.
2. Watershed Task Force
Federal, state, local agencies, and community groups have formed the Watershed Task Force to take action to protect the health and safety of the local watershed by providing storm water pollution and debris flow information and support after the 2019 Kincade Fire.
While it is the responsibility of property owners in the process of clean-up and rebuilding to control storm runoff and prevent pollutants, including sediment, from entering storm drains, creeks, rivers, and wetlands, the County is providing $300,000 to fund implementation of BMP’s on private property. Contracts are with Russian Riverkeeper, Soil Conservation, and Sonoma Ecology Center. All three organizations have experience with BMPs after the 2017 Fires and are continuing their efforts with the Kincade Fire.
The Watershed Task Force is also working through two members of the Task Force to pursue additional funding for water quality protection: the California State Water Resources Control Board (Water Board) and Sonoma Resource Conservation District (Sonoma RCD). Sonoma RCD has submitted a $350,000 319(H) grant to the Water Board and, as of February 10, 2020, has received a draft contract from the State. Sonoma RCD is confident that funding will be finalized soon.
Wattles and other BMP materials, such as straw, are available for purchase at various agriculture, garden supply and hardware stores.
Additional efforts by the Watershed Task Force included developing a debris flow hazard assessment with the State of California through the development of a WERT Report. Citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the potential hazards associated with the burned areas by view the interactive Limited Scope Post-Fire Hazard Assessment Map <https://sonomacounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=06636c962de34888b751ddc9cb9e97db> (the associated Limited Scope WERT Report is linked at the top of the map).
Property owners can visit socoemergency.org/recover/ <https://socoemergency.org/home/recover/2019-kincade-fire/kincade-fire-rain-ready/> for extensive information and resources about how to be Rain Ready.
3. Funding Opportunities
The Office of Recovery and Resiliency has identified several potential funding opportunities to assist with Kincade Fire recovery, including:
A. Clean Water Act (CWA) 319(H) emergency funding: Sonoma Resource Conservation District (RCD) has received $350,000 in CWA 319(H) emergency funding for purchase of best management practice (BMP) materials that would be placed by non-governmental organization (NGO) partners in burn areas. These materials would also be used to replace previously placed materials in burn zones. Funding must be utilized before Summer 2020, which means that any BMP materials purchased must also be placed by that date.
B. Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) Program: FMAG assistance is requested by a local or state fire agency while the fire is active with the declaration occurring within hours. FMAG is primarily for costs incurred during the fire event and will reimburse 75% of eligible costs, which includes overtime and contract labor, equipment, extraordinary EOC costs, and direct administrative costs, among others.
C. California Disaster Assistance Act (CDAA) Program: The Kincade Fire was determined to be eligible for CDAA funding November 26, 2019. CDAA funding is focused on repairing or restoring permanent structure damage. CDAA will reimburse 75% of eligible costs, including smoke damage, repairs to public facilities and some emergency response activities related to the disaster. ACTTC’s preliminary estimate is that the County will receive $7.5 million in CDAA assistance
D. FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Post Fire: On March 27, 2020, CalOES announced that FMAG-declared disasters, which includes the Kincade Fire (FM-5295), are eligible to apply for HMGP Post-Fire funding. Notices of Intent (NOI) to apply are due on June 1, 2020. Funding priorities for impacted counties are 1) hazard mitigation planning, and 2) post-fire mitigation activities, including defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, hazardous fuels reduction, erosion control measures, slope failure prevention measures, and flash flooding measures.
4. Recovery Resources
The Office of Recovery and Resiliency, in collaboration with County departments and community resources, is maintaining a Recovery website for the Kincade Fire, at SoCoEmergency.org/Recover <https://socoemergency.org/recover>. This site contains information on the following key topics:
1. Returning Home after a fire, including information about smoke damage, food safety, cleaning and sanitizing, and mental health resources to support the community during this time.
2. Rebuilding site that directs property owners to Permit Sonoma to receive information about how to start in the rebuilding process and what support is available. This includes information about the Resiliency Center, originally created following the Sonoma Complex Fires and now also available to those impacted by the Kincade Fire. The Resiliency Center will be gathering data on Kincade Fire rebuilding support and permitting needs over the coming months.
3. Debris Removal section of the site contains FAQ’s for both the initial Household Hazardous Waste Sweep and fire debris removal.
4. Rapid Evaluation Safety Assessment and Property Clean-Up status and maps
5. Air Quality information
6. Local Recovery Resources, including County, community, and state and federal resources.
7. Rain Readiness site with extensive information for property owners to protect creeks and waterways from debris runoff.
The Economic Development Board has also added information about recovery resources available for businesses at <http://sonomaedb.org/Business-Assistance/Business-Recovery-Tools/>. This includes information about Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans available for property owners and businesses. Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at <https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela>. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov <mailto:disastercustomerservice@sba.gov> for more information on SBA disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for property damage was January 17, 2020, however the deadline to apply for economic injury is August 18, 2020.
2017 Sonoma Complex Fires
In addition to recovery from the Kincade Fire, the County remains committed to supporting property owners impacted by the 2017 Sonoma Complex Fires. Information below highlights recovery updates in the areas of Housing, Debris Removal Insurance Collection, FEMA Public Assistance, Funding Opportunities, and other updates.
A. Housing
A. Resiliency Permit Center
The Resiliency Permit Center at Permit Sonoma continues to provide expedited comprehensive permitting and inspection services for those who lost homes in the fires and their representatives dealing with reconstruction of approximately 3,000 residential structures destroyed or damaged by the Sonoma Complex Fires. Services at the Resiliency Permit Center began February 13, 2018. The Resiliency Permit Center also provides free general review of bid proposals to fire survivors to help them determine where scope and pricing are appropriate.
B. Rebuilding Permits
As of March 31, 2020, the combined County and City permit departments have had 3,876 homes, or 75.36% of the homes lost in the fires, start the permitting process. Of those homes in the rebuild process, 251 were in the permit review process, 2,110 have been permitted and under construction, and 1,515 had completed construction. The remaining 1,267, or 24.64%, of the homes lost in the fires, have not yet started the permitting process in order to rebuild.
The combined rebuild has more homes rebuilt (1,515) than homes that have not yet entered the rebuilding process (1,267).
With COVID-19 Shelter in Place orders since March 17, 2020, the figures are not changing significantly from the March figures.
B. Defensible Space/Hazardous Fuels Reduction
A. Permit Sonoma Fire Prevention Division, in coordination with Cal Fire and several local Fire Districts, are in the midst of conducting seasonal outreach, education, and inspections for compliance with defensible space/hazardous fuels reduction regulations, and will perform abatement as necessary. Additional details about the County’s program are accessible online at: <https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/PRMD/Fire-Prevention/Vegetation-Management-Services/Hazardous-Vegetation/>
B. Sonoma County staff and contracted inspectors from several local Fire Districts have conducted a total of 2,993 inspections (2,244 on improved parcels and 749 on parcels without improvements). For 2019, CAL FIRE performed 3,851 inspections. In total, 6,844 inspections were performed in 2019.
C. In addition to the outreach, inspections, and enforcement program, the countywide free chipper service is also ongoing. From May through December 2019, there were 468 chipper jobs completed by crews and 63 jobs completed by property owners for a total of 531 chipper jobs completed in 2019
Additional details about the program, including guidelines and application forms, are accessible online at: <https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/PRMD/Fire-Prevention/Vegetation-Management-Services/Curbside-Chipper-Program/>
C. Debris Removal Insurance Collection
The Office of Recovery & Resiliency has collected, on behalf of FEMA, approximately $65 million in debris removal insurance funds. Due to the extent of the damage caused to properties during the debris removal process, the County initiated the Debris Insurance Collection Program in which property owners may be reimbursed for repairs needed as a result of the debris removal process (i.e., destruction of driveways, curbs and sidewalks due to heavy equipment, over-excavation, etc.). In addition, the County is permitting debris insurance monies to be used for tree removal. To date, the County has reimbursed approximately $5.5 million to property owners.
Both FEMA and CalOES were provided details on the reimbursement component of the County’s Program. However, as with all programs using Federal money, the Program is subject to later audits that could potentially result in FEMA/OIG recoupment of benefits and the County needing to reverse these reimbursements. In order to minimize any potential exposure to the County for the reimbursements to property owners, the County is requiring all property owners that receive reimbursements verify that they have not received a duplication of benefits, which would be a violation of the Federal Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief & Emergency Assistance Act.
D. FEMA Public Assistance - Sonoma Complex Fires
On November 19, 2019, your Board received an update from the Disaster Finance Team regarding the status of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) claims from 2017 Floods and Fire and 2019 Floods. This full Board item and supporting documents can be viewed at: <https://sonoma-county.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=4245333&GUID=13C81898-5587-4914-A162-58C0A370DD0D&Options=&Search=>
E. External Funding Opportunities: Federal Funding In Process
A. FEMA Public Assistance Appeal
The October 2017 wildfires caused damage to curbs, gutters, sidewalks, asphalt roads, a storm drain, and a timber retaining wall. Sonoma County requested funding for repairs to these facilities, as well as to 51 damaged asphalt sites in the Mark West/Larkfield area on county roads. FEMA initially denied funding for the repairs relating to the sidewalks, curbs, gutters, storm drain and retaining wall totaling $126,525. Sonoma County appealed FEMA's denial of the repairs. On May 24, 2019, Cal-OES informed the County, via letter, FEMA approved the appeal for $126,525 which means the County will be receiving the funds to make the repairs.
Sonoma County has identified damage to county roads resulting from the Private Property Debris Removal operations that were conducted by the United States Army Corps of Engineers at FEMA's request. TPW was notified that FEMA has denied this request for $18,512,123 to fund repair of 32 roads damaged by debris removal trucks. The County received the official Determination/Notice denying the Private Property Debris Removal road damage. The County sent an official appeal letter to Cal-OES on January 22, 2020.
After Transportation and Public Works (TPW) staff inquired about reimbursement for Private Property Debris Removal damaged roads, FEMA and CalOES project managers requested documentation to support the damages. TPW subsequently provided engineering estimates that included type of treatment needed and materials. Site visits were conducted with FEMA representatives, and before and after photos of each site were provided for reference.
B. HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM (HMGP) - FEMA SECTION 404
The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) helps communities implement hazard mitigation activities following a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration. HMGP funding is used to provide protection to undamaged parts of a facility or to prevent or reduce damages caused by future disasters. HMGP is managed by the State under funding provided for in the Stafford Act. The entire state - not just presidentially declared counties - may qualify for HMGP mitigation projects. The State receives a percentage of the total federal share of the declared disaster damage amount, which it uses to fund projects anywhere in the State, regardless of where the declared disaster occurred or the disaster type.
The cost share for HMGP is 75% federal with a 25% non-federal or County match. The County’s share is projected at the beginning of the application process, and funding sources are identified before the application is submitted. In addition to some special funds (non-general funds) being used for the local match, the County also set aside $4 million in anticipation of the local share requirement. The balance on this amount is monitored regularly, and to date this amount is still sufficient for all pending applications and awarded projects.
Recent disasters that have current HMGP grant activity include:
|
FEMA # |
Event |
|
DR-4308 |
CA severe winter storms, flooding, mudslides (Feb 2017) |
|
DR-4344 |
CA wildfires (Oct 2017) |
|
DR-4353 |
CA wildfires, flooding, mudflows, debris flows (Jan 2018) |
|
DR-4407 |
CA wildfires- Butte, LA, Ventura (Nov 2018) |
|
DR-4434 |
CA severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, mudslides (Feb 2019) |
The tables below refer to a “lead agency,” which refers to the County department or agency that is submitting the HMGP application. Some applications may involve multiple departments but only one is listed as the primary contact.
|
Agency |
Full Name |
|
CDC |
Community Development Commission |
|
DEM |
Department of Emergency Management |
|
ISD |
Information Systems Department |
|
Permit Sonoma |
formerly Permit and Resource Management Department |
|
Regional Parks |
Regional Parks |
|
SCWA |
Sonoma County Water Agency |
|
TPW |
Transportation and Public Works |
The initial stage of an HMGP application is a Notice of Intent (NOI) to apply, which then expands to the proposal development phase. The following projects are in this first stage of application:
This table shows that six projects have started the NOI process for a total of $3,520,065.
One project has been waitlisted, which is akin to being put on hold until additional funds become available.
This table shows the one waitlisted project has a value of $6,777,777.
If the initial NOI is approved, the project’s scope and timeline are narrowed and the project advances to CalOES review. The following projects are currently in this stage:
This table shows that five projects have moved to the CalOES process for a total of $850,666.
After CalOES review, the application is then sent for FEMA’s approval. The following projects are currently in this stage:
This table shows that six projects have been sent to FEMA for approval for a total of $20,108,810.
Four projects have been denied funding after undergoing FEMA review. These projects were:
This table shows that four projects have been denied funding by FEMA for a total of $1,300,000.
The final stage is when a project is awarded or obligated, and the department can begin to work on the mitigation project. $10.3 million has been awarded in HMGP grant funding to date (“Grant Request” column). Below is a summary of the projects that have received HMGP funding:
This table shows that fifteen projects have been approved by FEMA for a total of $27,855,172 million project cost, $15,770,273 grant request, $12,084,899 for match, and $1,387,044 for General Fund match.
County - awarded HMGP project descriptions:
Advance Assistance: Wildfire Adapted Sonoma County Phase 1
$1,692,510 awarded March 2020; anticipated completion March 2021
This project will educate wildlife urban interface (WUI) residents in unincorporated Sonoma County about the importance of defensible space and the principles of structural hardening, through targeted events and outreach. Outreach will be followed by comprehensive, community-wide defensible space inspections and voluntary WUI structural hardening evaluations. The project will address vegetation within 100 feet of a structure and focus on reducing the flammability of the structures themselves.
Fire Early Warning Camera System
$2,042,039 awarded February 2020; anticipated completion February 2023
This funding will enable the County install a network of fire detection cameras throughout the County that can detect fire day or night. These cameras will provide early detection of fires and provide precise locations that can be transmitted to dispatchers and emergency operations managers immediately.
Green Valley Creek Restoration and Flood Resiliency Project - Phase 1 (DR-4308)
$376,673 awarded January 2020; anticipated completion December 2021
This project will reduce the frequency and duration of flooding at Green Valley Road in order to address public safety risks, recurrent road and private property damage, and impacts to listed and endangered species in the watershed. This project is a joint effort between the Department of Transportation and Public Works and Sonoma Water.
Flood Elevation Program (DR-4301)
$2,198,796 awarded January 2020; anticipated completion February 2022
The Sonoma County Flood Elevation Program elevates single and multi-family dwellings above established base flood elevation, which reduces damage to structures and prevents loss of life and property. This funding will elevate ten homes in the Russian River area. The program has elevated 293 homes since its inception in 1997.
County Airport Generator
$359,460 awarded November 2019; anticipated completion September 2022
During the 2017 fires, the Sonoma County Airport experienced a total power loss and had to shut down terminal operations for two days. A reliable airport power supply will ensure continued operation of critical infrastructure, airline and security services during an emergency.
County Data Center Generator - Phase 1
$26,584 awarded November 2019; anticipated completion August 2020
Installing a generator at the Sonoma County Data Center will ensure that emergency response and public safety systems, including 911 calls and computer-aided dispatch systems, will be available during a power outage. Phase 1 is the design phase.
Generator Installation at Santa Rosa Road Maintenance Yard
$186,741 awarded August 2019; anticipated completion November 2020
Installing a generator at the Santa Rosa Road Maintenance Yard will enable the facility to function as the Sonoma County Transportation and Public Works’ Operation Center by providing power for critical dispatching activities during a disaster.
Operational Area Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
$249,998 awarded August 2019; anticipated completion August 2022
The Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan will encompass a more comprehensive, regional approach to potential hazards and minimize duplication of efforts.
Community Wildfire Protection Plan Update
$150,000 awarded August 2019; anticipated completion August 2022
The existing countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan will be updated with new fire and seismic data, in collaboration with Fire Safe Sonoma.
Sonoma Water - awarded HMGP project descriptions
Advanced Radar Flood Warning System - Phase 1
$110,101 awarded January 2020; anticipated completion April 2021
Precise rainfall forecasting for atmospheric rivers gives flood control managers, including Sonoma Water, emergency responders, transportation officials and media outlets more accurate information on the location, timing and intensity of expected rainfall. This funding will expand a regional flood monitoring and forecasting system to cover a critical coverage gap in Marin and Sonoma counties. Phase 1 includes final site analysis, installation design and configuration.
Seismic Rehabilitation and Retrofit of Secondary Treatment Clarifiers, Sonoma Valley County Sanitation District - Phase 1
$195,959 awarded October 2019; anticipated completion April 2021
This project will replace the internal mechanisms of the two secondary treatment clarifiers at the Sonoma Valley wastewater treatment plant with new components designed to meet current standards for seismic resilience and to ensure operational function following a magnitude 8.0 earthquake along the San Andreas Fault. Phase 1 includes determining structural, mechanical, and demolition methods and preparing construction specifications and contract documents.
Water Transmission System Ely Booster Station Hazard Mitigation
$2,306,867 awarded June 2019; anticipated completion June 2022
Sonoma Water’s Ely Booster Station supplies water to over 310,000 residents in Marin and Sonoma counties. This project would seal electrical enclosures, elevate equipment, anchor equipment and construct a sheet pile wall to mitigate the potential for liquefaction and lateral spread in the event of a major earthquake.
Santa Rosa Creek Crossing Hazard Mitigation Project (DR-4240)
$2,979,959 awarded November 2019; anticipated completion September 2021
This funding will enable Sonoma Water to relocate a portion of the Santa Rosa Aqueduct from an area that falls within the “very high” hazard zone for failure during an earthquake to a below-street location. A portion of pipeline that crosses under Santa Rosa Creek will be microtunneled under the existing bridge and concrete box culvert in which the creek currently passes.
Seismic Rehabilitation and Retrofit of Secondary Treatment Clarifiers, Russian River County Sanitation District (DR-4308)
$2,238,402 awarded September 2018; anticipated completion September 2021
This project will replace the internal mechanisms of the three secondary treatment clarifiers at the Russian River wasterwater treatment plant with new components designed to meet current standards for seismic resilience and to ensure operational function following a magnitude 8.0 earthquake along the San Andreas Fault. The funding will contribute to both the design and construction of the project.
Penngrove Sanitation Zone Lift Station Flood Resilency Project (DR-4301)
$350,266 awarded August 2017; $305,920 additional funding preliminarily approved February2020;
anticipated completion February 2021
The location and design of the Penngrove Sanitation Zone Lift Station are increasingly prone to flooding during major storm events. This funding will enable Sonoma Water to lift the electrical equipment above the 500-year flood elevation level, reducing the risk of sanitary sewer overflows due to power loss.
C. HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM (HMGP) - FEMA SECTION 404
PRE-DISASTER MITIGATION (PDM)
PDM, like HMGP, is part of FEMA’s overall Hazard Mitigation Assistance program. Unlike HMGP, however, PDM provides funds on an annual basis for hazard mitigation planning and the implementation of mitigation projects. FEMA provides funding for measures to reduce or eliminate overall risk from natural hazards. The cost share for the PDM program is 75% federal with a 25% non-federal or County match. The following projects are in various stages of FEMA approval and review in the PDM program:
This table shows five projects are in various stages of the approval process, including one awarded, one in FEMA review, one waitlisted, and one NOI approved.
D. PUBLIC ASSISTANCE (PA) FOR RECOVERY & RESILIENCY (FEMA SECTION 406)
The PA grant is managed by the State under funding provided for in the Stafford Act. This funding provides discretionary authority to fund mitigation measures in conjunction with the repair of disaster-damaged facilities and is limited to declared counties and eligible damaged facilities. PA is applied on the parts of the facility that were damaged by the disaster and mitigation measures to reduce the potential of future, similar disaster damages to the eligible facility. The cost share is federal 75%, State 18.75% and County 6.25%. The following projects have received PA funding:
This table shows two projects that have received funding approval for FEMA PA, one for $104,263 and another for $18,260.
E. OTHER DISASTER RECOVERY FUNDING
CAL FIRE Funding
The Geyserville Fire Protection District, in conjunction with the Sonoma County Water Agency, received $540,212 in Cal Fire funding on May 30, 2019 for hazardous fuel reduction projects. Additionally, Permit Sonoma’s Fire Prevention Division worked with Pepperwood Preserve on their decision support system and fuels treatment CAL FIRE grant application and also provided letters of support for Fire Safe Sonoma grants for training of inspectors and community outreach materials.
Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR)
CDBG-DR funds are based on disaster impacts and address the long-term recovery needs of a community. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced on April 10, 2018, that California would be receiving $212 million to support long-term disaster recovery through the CDBG-DR program, including $124 million for unmet recovery needs.
The State’s (HCD) HUD approved Action Plan includes a budget of $47.6 million for an owner-occupied housing program, $66.7 million for a multifamily housing program, $3.5 million for a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) match program, and $6.2 million for administration. An additional $38 million was recently announced for unmet recovery needs.
Additional CDBG-DR funds were recently announced in February 2020, including $431 million for unmet infrastructure needs resulting from 2017 disasters. Of that amount, $38 million is allocated to California, specifically Sonoma and Ventura counties. The County is awaiting program guidelines from State HCD but anticipates being able to apply successfully for this funding.
CDBG Mitigation (CDBG-MIT)
CDBG-MIT funds facilitate mitigation activities which increase resilience to disasters and decrease the impact of future disasters. HUD designated the State of California as the CDGB-MIT grantee and a new Action Plan for CDGB-MIT will be required by April 6, 2020 from the State. To date, the CDBG-MIT funding of $88 million has yet to be made available; however, County departments are in preliminary discussions in anticipation of this opportunity.
F. Other Recovery Updates:
Airport-Larkfield-Wikiup Sanitation Zone Larkfield Estates Collection System - Contract Award
On October 15, 2019, the Board approved the Project Manual and Drawings (“plans and specifications”) for the "Airport- Larkfield-Wikiup Sanitation Zone Larkfield Estates Collection System" and awarded a contract to Ranger Pipelines, Inc., in the amount of $3,727,868 to lead this project.
Entire neighborhoods were destroyed by the Sonoma Complex Fires in the Airport-Larkfield-Wikiup Sanitation Zone (Sanitation Zone). Many homes in the Larkfield area were connected to septic systems, and at the request of neighborhood property owners, the Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water), on behalf of the Sanitation Zone, developed a preliminary design of a sewer collection system to serve homes being rebuilt in the Larkfield Estates neighborhood, and is steadily advancing toward a completed design.
On June 5, 2018 the Board authorized Sonoma Water to enter into an agreement for a sewer collection system design in the Larkfield Estates community damaged by the Sonoma Complex Fires in the Sanitation Zone.
On February 5, 2019, the Board approved the Airport-Larkfield-Wikiup Sanitation Zone Larkfield Estates Collection System Project (Project). Immediately following project approval, the General Manager/Chief Engineer filed a Notice of Exemption in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project. As part of the same item, the Board approved the financing program, which will offer low-cost financing to property owners in the fire-impacted area. Each property that chooses to connect to the sewer will be allocated a pro-rata share of the entire design and construction cost to be repaid over 30 years, with the first 10 years in a grace period. The Board also authorized the General Manager to execute agreements to acquire property rights needed for the Project. Subsequent to this approval, the Project design was revised to eliminate any need for acquisition of easements on private property.
2019 Winter Storms and Flooding Update Summary
On February 26, 2019, Sonoma County Supervisors declared a Local Emergency as powerful winter storms battered the county. On February 28, 2019, Governor Newsom declared a State of Emergency for Sonoma County. On April 13, 2019, Governor Newsom requested a Federal Major Disaster Declaration for the two atmospheric river storm systems that struck California in February 2019, including the County of Sonoma.
On May 17, 2019, the President declared a Federal Disaster for the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides for 16 counties in California, including Sonoma County, for the incident period of February 24 to March 1, 2019. This Federal Declaration allows for FEMA Public Assistance (PA) and FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).
1. FEMA Public Assistance - 2019 Late February Storms
On November 19, 2019, your Board received an update from the Disaster Finance Team regarding the status of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) claims from 2017 Floods and Fire and 2019 Floods.
This full Board item and supporting documents can be viewed at: <https://sonoma-county.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=4245333&GUID=13C81898-5587-4914-A162-58C0A370DD0D&Options=&Search=>
2. Funding Opportunities
A. Assistance Hazard Mitigation Grant Program: Notices of Intent (NOI) for the DR-4434 2019 Winter Storms and Floods Hazard Mitigation Grant Program were requested by CalOES by August 9, 2019. The Board was provided NOI information prior to submission, and Board members and Department leaders provided input. Currently four applications are under CalOES review, and five NOI’s have been approved.
B. Assistance for Businesses Impacted by Flood: The Economic Development Board continues to help local businesses impacted by the 2019 winter storms and floods to recover by providing support to access a number of loan programs and resources.
C. Assistance for Businesses Impacted by Flood: The Economic Development Board continues to help local businesses impacted by the 2019 winter storms and floods to recover by providing support to access a number of loan programs and resources.
Nor-Cal Financial Development Corporation
Nor-Cal Financial Development Corporation (FDC) is offering three loan opportunities for small businesses who incurred damages from the floods. Opportunities include:
• Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program, which offers up to $1.25 million in loans to repair or replace property, inventory, supplies, and equipment, or to relocate the businesses. Interest rates for these loans are less than 9% and are negotiated with lender for up to 7-year terms. This is offered through a partnership with IBank.
• Jump Start Loan Program, which offers up to $10,000 in quick microloans for small businesses to meet their obligations and pay their necessary operating expenses, as well as general start-up expenses. Interest rates are less than 9% with 5-year terms.
• Small Business Loan Guarantee Program, which offers up to $20 million in loans with a maximum loan guarantee of $2.5 million or up to 80% of the loan with 0- to 7-year terms.
California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (iBank)
The California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (iBank) is providing two loans. Opportunities include:
• Industrial Development Bond Financing Program is available for all manufacturing or processing businesses and offers up to $1 million to $10 million in low-cost, low-interest loans for manufacturing companies to be used for land acquisition, building construction, building renovation, or equipment purchasing.
• Farm Loan Program is available for owners or operators of family farms and vineyards who are otherwise unable to secure a loan without a guarantee. This program provides up to $1.4 million in low-interest loans for operation and production expenses, including repair or construction of buildings and storage facilities; purchase of equipment, livestock, seed, or fertilizer; soil and water conservation; or refinancing debt.
In addition, Working Solutions offers the North Bay Emergency Relief Loan Program, providing up to $50,000 in loans to pay for obligations and operating expenses, as well as replacement/repair of equipment, inventory, or property. Working Solutions is a certified nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that supports San Francisco Bay Area entrepreneurs to start and grow local businesses.
Since the floods, Nor-Cal FDC has helped connect four businesses with possible financing to be guaranteed by the state Disaster Loan Guarantee Program. Working Solutions is also assisting five businesses for possible direct loan assistance as well as giving existing loan clients a forbearance on their payments.
For additional information about loans and other resources for local businesses, go to <http://sonomaedb.org/Business-Assistance/Flood-Recovery-Business-Resources/>
Prior Board Actions:
Regular Recovery Updates have been provided to your Board since November 2017.
Fiscal Summary
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Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
Attachments:
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board: