South Coast Air Quality Management District

Public Affairs Report

SYNOPSIS: 

This report highlights the February 2001 activities of the Public Affairs Office which includes the following activities: Environ-mental Justice Update, Community Events/Public Meetings, Business Assistance, Intergovernmental Affairs, Media Communications, and Transportation Programs.

COMMITTEE: 

Not Applicable.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Receive and file this report.

Barry R. Wallerstein, D.Env.
Executive Officer

The following report reflects the activities of the Public Affairs Office for the month of February. The report format includes six major areas: Environmental Justice Update, Community Events/Public Meetings (including the Speakers Bureau, Visiting Dignitaries and Public Information Center), Business Assistance, Intergovernmental Affairs, Media Communications (including the Communication Center), and Transportation Programs.

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE UPDATE

As of March 2000, the AQMD has met the objectives of the Environmental Justice Initiatives. Policies and Procedures are in place to address the Environmental Justice concerns of communities and individuals.
 

INITIATIVE	ACTIVITY
Town Hall Meetings	A Town Hall Meeting was held on Wednesday, February 7, 2001 in the community of Mira Loma. AQMD will host a Town Hall Meeting in Burbank at the Burbank City Council Chambers on Wednesday, March 28, 2001
Ambient Monitoring of Air Toxics	MATES-II and Microscale Study: Completed. Governing Board approved MATES II Study at March 2000 meeting.
Community Response Teams	Torch Middle School AQMD staff is working with the surrounding community to assist them in monitoring potential emissions from area sources. Wilmington Park Elementary AQMD staff will attend a town hall meeting on March 14 which will outline special air monitoring that the California Air Resources Board will conduct under SB 25 (Escutia) – Environmental Health Protection: Children. Los Angeles Unified School District AQMD staff will assist LAUSD in drafting an emergency response plan for schools located near refineries. This is in response to the Carson Town Hall Meeting.
CEQA Commenting	Commenting Reporting Period: December 2000 Requests to AQMD for document review           0 Documents received this reporting period          54 Documents to receive AQMD comments:         20 Comment letters sent out this reporting period:  20
Environmental Justice Task Force	Completed. The final report was received at the August 1999 Governing Board meeting.
City of Los Angeles Environmental Justice Forum	Completed. AQMD participated in the October 25, 1997 forum.
Diesel Fuel Clean-Up Incentives	Proposed Rule 1195 - Clean On-Road School Buses goes to the Governing Board for adoption hearing at the April 2001 meeting.
Field Inspection Technology	Completed. The Governing Board approved a plan at the December 1998 meeting.
Portable Equipment Permitting	Completed. The Governing Board approved a Compliance Policy for Portable Equipment on March 12,1999.
Public Comment, Rules 1401 and 1402	Completed. The Governing Board approved the Toxics Reduction Plan at the March 2000 meeting.

COMMUNITY EVENTS/PUBLIC MEETINGS

Each year, thousands of AQMD customers receive tips on reducing their exposure to smog and its health effects; information on ways to participate in AQMD rule and policy development; and assistance in resolving air quality-related problems through events and meetings which AQMD sponsors alone or with others. The following describes the activities undertaken during February.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
2/6	Los Angeles	Made a presentation on air pollution and future goals for our region before 100 members of the Claremont University Club.
2/7	Los Angeles	Attended the Interim National Black Environmental and Economic Justice Coordinating Committee Meeting.
2/7	San Bernardino	Hosted Mira Loma Town Hall meeting attended by 200 people. Discussed the increase in development of warehouses and subsequent increase in diesel emissions from truck traffic in the community.
2/7	Los Angeles	Spoke with Executive Director of LA County Bicycle Coalition regarding having AQMD and Diamond Bar TMA host a lunchtime information meeting on bike riding and safety issues in March/April.
2/8	Los Angeles	Spoke with Director of Senior University at Cal State Long Beach about possible partnership opportunities on Senior’s Outreach.
2/8	Los Angeles	Gave general air quality overview slide presentation to a joint dinner meeting of the L.A./Orange County chapters of the Society of Women Engineers at Cal State Long Beach. About 25 members attended.
2/12	Los Angeles	Spoke with lobbyist for LA City Hall re: community outreach.
2/12	Los Angeles	Worked with representatives from MTV and Fox Studios re: assisting with our public outreach efforts in air quality.
2/13	Riverside	Spoke with staff member from Pechanga Indian Tribe who wanted information on our monitoring network and possible involvement in working groups with modeling or measurement focus. Spoke to staff in Planning and Monitoring & Analysis with regard to Tribal Lands. Will forward information on AQMP and atmospheric measurement for review.

2/13	Headquarters	Spoke with representative from Oregon Department of Environmental Quality regarding International Public Education program on air quality being offered by German Marshall Fund. She will forward a contact with Center for Clean Air Policy in Washington, DC, who coordinates Fellowship with German government. Contact list will assist in marketing California Air Tech 2001 Conference.
2/14	Los Angeles	At the request of the Hearing Board, distributed a survey with return envelopes to the Compton community which will be included at the CRM Hearing.
2/14	Los Angeles	Spoke with staff from the Asthma & Allergy Foundation to discuss status on Breathmobile. Unit is being built with a planned completion date of March 30. AAFA will be hosting an in-service on Feb. 22 for school nurses who will implement the asthma screening program. Staff will work with AAFA to coordinate a media event to publicize an April roll-out.
2/14	Los Angeles	Met with Chairman Burke re: International Conference, Clean Air Awards, and site tour.
2/15	Los Angeles	Spoke with staff at University of La Verne re: new fuel cell invention.
2/15	Los Angeles	Spoke with representative from St. Joseph Hospital re: Burbank Town Hall Meeting.
2/22	Los Angeles	Spoke with Executive Director of LA County Bicycle Coalition (LACBC) to confirm May 1 as meeting date for AQMD and Diamond Bar TMA to host a lunchtime information meeting on bike riding and safety issues. Also spoke about Los Angeles River Ride event being organized by LACBC on May 20 and cosponsored by KCAL and other corporations. LACBC will provide AQMD with a complimentary information booth to provide event attendees with air quality information.
2/22	San Bernardino	Spoke with staff from City of Montclair regarding Senior Initiatives and outreach planned for Montclair Mall walkers.
2/28	Districtwide	Contacted the Los Angeles, Orange and Inland County chapters of the American Lung Association to determine their interest in being exhibitors at the Educators Conference.
2/28	Los Angeles	Staffed information booth and participated in a panel discussion on health issues at the annual health fair at Bravo Medical Magnet High School in Boyle Heights.
2/28	Los Angeles	Served as a panel member at the San Gabriel Valley Business/Community/Education Partnership Regional Advisory Committee Meeting at the Holiday Inn Select in Diamond Bar. About 75 people attended.
2/28	San Bernardino	Attended Air Quality Committee meeting of the American Lung Association of the Inland Counties. Provided an update on recent board actions and upcoming Fleet Rule 1195, and AQMD Educators Conference.

Events/Conferences Sponsored/Hosted	Participated/Attended
8 / 3	8 / 8

Public Workshops/Notices	Fee Review Requests
4 / 7	7

Speakers Bureau / Visiting Dignitaries / Information Requests

AQMD receives dozens of requests each month from trade associations, chambers of commerce and community-based groups, as well as schools, hospitals and health-based organizations, requesting a District staff member to speak on a variety of air quality-related issues. In turn, the District hosts distinguished visitors from around the world, as well as members of the general public, who visit our headquarters to tour the facility and meet with staff on a wide range of air quality issues. The following describes the major activities handled during February.
 

Speaking Requests Received	Presentations (by Public Advisor staff)
3	3
Delegations Hosted	Tours of AQMD Headquarters
0	0

Public Information Center Statistics

The Public Information Center handles the District’s visitors and handles general information phone calls.
 

Visitor Transactions	Info Packages Mailed	Calls Received by PIC Staff	Calls to  Automated System	Total Phone Calls Received
449	692	351	3,494	3,845

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

AQMD assists businesses by notifying them of proposed regulations so they can participate in their development by providing one-to-one assistance. Staff also works with other agencies and states to identify efficient, cost-effective ways to reduce air pollution and shares that information broadly.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
2/9	Los Angeles	Miscellaneous manufacturing: Existing business is expanding to an adhesive spraying line. Provided and explained applicable District rules and assisted in the completion and submittal of the application package.
2/13	Orange	Consulting electrical engineer: Needed to know permitting requirements for diesel generators. Explained permitting conditions and Executive Orders as applicable to emergency generators.
2/13	Orange	Coating manufacturer: Setting up company to manufacture architectural coatings. Wanted to know about compliance with rules. Discussed how Rules 102, 219, 1113, and 1141.1 apply to proposed operation.
2/13	Los Angeles	Motion picture film processing company. Conducted an onsite consultation meeting and provided assistance explaining District’s Proposed Rule 1425 permitting/ compliance requirements for film cleaning operations and equipment which uses perc cleaning solvent.
2/13	Los Angeles	Spray booth manufacturer: Needed assistance filling out application for spray booth. Assisted and showed what supplemental information permit processing engineers require.
2/13	Los Angeles	Real estate management: Assisted with Rule 222 applicability on boilers. Explained exemptions, fees and equipment registration form.
2/13	Orange	Miscellaneous manufacturing: Request came through the Orange County Permit Assistance Center. Assisted in the completion and submittal of the application package for an emergency internal combustion engine.
2/14	San Bernardino	Laundry service company: Proposing to install a large boiler, needed assistance with permit and emission requirements. Discussed BACT, fees and forms. Mailed copy of Rule 1146.
2/14	Los Angeles	Battery manufacturer: Needed assistance determining the permit requirements for their facility. Discussed and reviewed Rule 219 and identified exemption limitations for their operations.
2/14	Orange	Dry cleaning facility: Proposed penalty to be assessed on a violation for excess amount of perc solvent usage during 1999. At District Prosecutor’s request, conducted an on-site consultation meeting and provided assistance explaining the equipment compliance requirements and penalty associated with violation.
2/14	Orange	Auto repair facility: New business that required a clearance letter. Determined they were exempt from District permit requirements. Provided and explained applicable District rules and provided a clearance letter.
2/9 & 15	Districtwide	Completed initial round of Expired Permits December 2000, Courtesy Phone Calls. Anticipate retaining 32 of 243 expired permits.
2/15	Districtwide	Costco/Price Club: Compiled a list of all locations within our District. Determined that there are 31 stores located in our District, eight of which have equipment that currently is not permitted. Licensing Department has been provided with the necessary application forms and is in the process of submitting applications.
2/15	Los Angeles	Chamber/Business Association: Scheduled seminar, "Preparing For A Business Loan." Coordinated with AQMD Program Director of AQAF to attend and offer update and assistance to attendees.
2/15	Orange	Chamber/Business Association: Scheduled business meeting, "Minority Owned Small Business: Opportunities For Growth." Attended and promoted AQAF. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Orange County & Orange County Business Council.
2/15	Los Angeles	Chamber/Business Association: Scheduled seminar, "Preparing For A Business Loan." Attended and promoted small business programs at a meeting of the Latin Business Association.
2/15	San Bernardino	Auto body shop: New business that will include a paint spray booth. Provided and explained applicable District rules and assisted in the completion and submittal of the application package. Also provided a clearance letter.

2/15	Headquarters	Supervised 2-hour Focus Group Session at which a group of small business owners provided input regarding possible woodworking rule being developed by AQMD.
2/15	Los Angeles	Lithographic printer: Switched to monthly VOC record keeping last year, but were told them their press permits did not allow monthly record keeping. Company wanted assistance. Visited facility and discussed how to keep records on their computer and simplify entries. Will look into how they can apply to have their permit emission limits changed from daily to monthly limits.
2/15	Orange	Representative from dry cleaning machine manufacturer: Conducted a telephone consultation meeting with the dry cleaning equipment vendor and discussed the BACT requirements and other related equipment permitting issues for petroleum solvent machines.
2/15	Riverside	Dry cleaner: Plans to acquire an existing dry cleaning business and relocate the store. Provided assistance and explanations of District’s policies and regulations for new permitting requirements for dry cleaning machines.
2-16	Orange	Shrinkable labels manufacturer: Requested assistance determining VOC compliance limit for their process. Conducted a telephone consultation meeting and provided assistance in explaining District’s rules and regulations for the solvents used in the manufacturing processes.
2/16	Los Angeles	Major international airport in Los Angeles: Requested assistance with emergency power generating equipment operation due to the AQMD permits’ limited yearly allowable operating hours. Informed the airport official of the most recent District policy regarding the extended emergency equipment yearly operating hours restriction for essential facilities.
2/16	Orange	Decorative stone works installer. Conducted a phone consultation and provided information regarding District’s rules and regulations, and VOC limits compliance requirements for the waterproof sealing solvents applied to the finished stone works.
2/20	Los Angeles	Educational institution: Existing business requesting assistance with billing problems and issues related to small boilers. Provided and explained applicable District Rules and assisted in resolving the billing problems with customer service.
2/20	Orange	City public utilities: This request came through the Orange County Permit Assistance Center. Coordinated with District Engineering staff to address concerns with proposed installation of power generating equipment.
2/20	Los Angeles	Dry cleaning facility: Cited for solvent leakage violation. Provided assistance and explanations of District’s policies and regulations for compliance requirements for dry cleaning machines.
2/20	San Joaquin	Construction contractor: Provided assistance and explained the District’s permitting and compliance requirements for portable power generating and screening equipment.
2/20	Los Angeles	City safety management department: Safety officer requested assistance with VOC record keeping training in public works section. Visited his department and looked at operations that involved use of coatings, solvents, and inks. Discussed rules applicable to their operations and will return to assist them in setting up record keeping.
2/20	Los Angeles	Building contractor: Proposing to operate a negative air machine for asbestos clean-up operations. Provided assistance in completing Rule 222 registration form.
2/21	Los Angeles	Textile Printing: Expressed interest in the Air Quality Assistance Fund as a financial assistance option in the purchase of a new boiler. Discussed program and requirements.
2/21	Orange	Gave presentation at Orange County – Community Awareness and Emergency Response Business Workshop. Attendees included industry representatives and local agencies. The presentation consisted of explaining small business assistance programs and understanding air quality inspections.
2/21	Atlanta GA	Hardware warehouse chain stores: Conducted a telephone consultation meeting and discussed AQMD’s permitting and compliance requirements for emergency generating equipment for their So. California stores.

2/21	Los Angeles	Hotel: Received Notice to Comply to do change of ownership on boiler permits and charbroiler registrations. Assisted in filling out forms.
2/21	Los Angeles	Chemical company: Conducted a telephone consultation meeting and discussed permitting and compliance requirements for baghouse equipment.
2/21	Los Angeles	Furniture stripping: Assisted with fees due on their application which has been reviewed by the Fee Review Committee. Explained applicable rules and toxic risk.
2/22	Los Angeles	Textile printing: Was issued a notice of violation for operating a boiler, screen printing tables, and fabric drying oven without a permit. Conducted on-site visit to discuss applicable rules, fees and record keeping requirements.
2/22	Los Angeles	Wood pallet & wood chip manufacturer: Wanted to permit existing emergency generator. Advised that NOx emissions were too high to meet BACT. Suggested he contact manufacturer, who suggested installation of a retrofit package that would bring engine up to current BACT requirements. Assisted in filling out permit application forms.
2/22	Orange	Coating manufacturer: Starting up operation and received Notice to Comply to permit several post mixers. Visited facility and assisted in completing applications for permits on mixers. Also advised them on use of tote bins for temporary storage and transportation of solvents and coatings. Additionally, discussed all rules relating to their operation.
2/22	Los Angeles	Local city: Plans to install emergency generating equipment. Conducted a telephone consultation meeting with the city’s facility manager and discussed permitting and compliance requirements for emergency equipment.
2/22	Los Angeles	Condo homeowners association: Operates a 25-year old boiler. Conducted a telephone consultation meeting and discussed the compliance requirements for boiler equipment under Rule 1146.2.
2/22	Los Angeles	Construction project: Employs unconfined abrasive blasting work. Provided assistance and explained AQMD’s compliance requirements for unconfined blasting operations.
2/22	Los Angeles	Met with Think Earth committee to discuss an energy and environmental audit program for elementary - high school students.
2/23	Orange	Chamber/Business Association: Scheduled business meeting regarding energy/power-generating facilities in Orange County. Coordinated with AQMD IGA and CalEPA-OC PAC to attend and offer update and assistance to attendees. Guest speakers included several members of the Legislature.
2/23	Orange	Major pipeline construction contractor: The company operates more than a dozen portable diesel fueled engines of various sizes for their construction projects. Due to non-payment of the annual renewal fees, AQMD permits for 16 engines had expired. Staff provided assistance and explained the District’s permitting and compliance requirements for the portable engines.
2/23	Los Angeles	Dry cleaning facility: The dry cleaner discovered that he is operating a dry cleaning machine without an air permit because the previous owner did not have a valid permit when the transaction took place. Staff provided assistance in completing the application for a new permit to operate.
2/24	Los Angeles	Attended presentation of new web site for the United Eco Clubs which was presented at a computer applications conference.
2/27	Los Angeles	Silk Screen Printing: Applicant is starting up a silk screen print shop. Requests clearance letter for city of South El Monte. Exempt per Rule 219 due to low VOC usage, issued clearance.
2/27	Los Angeles	Plating Shop: Facility was issued a Notice of Violation for operating a hard chrome plating line over the allowed ampere hours. Company had unintentionally been reading the meter incorrectly. Plating line is equipped with control equipment and recent source test indicated low emissions. Staff assisted in completing variance package and explaining permit and rule requirements.
2/27	Los Angeles	Restaurant: This request came through the LA Business Revitalization Center. Provided and explained applicable District rules and an application package. Also issued a clearance letter. The assistance was given in Spanish.

2/27	Los Angeles	Electronic product manufacturer: This request came through the LA Business Retention Center. This is an existing company that is expanding to include another wave solder machine. Provided and explained applicable District rules and an application package for the equipment.
2/27	Los Angeles	Cabinet manufacturer & installer: Company received a Notice of Violation for operating a spray booth without a permit and needed help with application. Went to shop and assisted in putting together a complete application package.
2/27	Northtown PA	Canada-based polyester resin products manufacturer: Plans to locate new production facility in the SCAQMD area. Staff provided further assistance and consultations to the company’s consultant and discussed permitting and compliance requirements for such manufacturing operations.
2/27	Los Angeles	Dry cleaning equipment manufacturer and distributor: Staff provided assistance and explained the permitting and compliance requirements for petroleum solvent dry cleaning machines. Staff clarified misinformation regarding the monthly solvent usage limitations.
2/27	Los Angeles	Public Utility: Company is proposing to install an aerosol can recycling system. Staff provided assistance in determining applicable regulations and permit fees.
2/28	Los Angeles	Building Contractor: Company is in the process of replacing their existing emergency internal combustion engine and wanted to verify if engine is listed in AQMD’s certified equipment list. Provided information on listing and mailed permit application package.
2/28	Orange	Hotel & Country Club: Assisted facility with forms and fees required for the registration of a charbroiler.
2/28	Los Angeles	Motion Picture Theater: Facility was issued a notice of violation for operating a back-up generator without a valid permit. Explained rule requirements, fees and equipment registration form.
2/28	Riverside	Waterfall manufacturer: Company wanted information on how to fill out record keeping forms for coating VOC. Went over forms and discussed how to calculate daily emissions.
2/28	Orange	Plastic products manufacturer: Company is in the business of manufacturing sky lights for residential homes. Facility submitted applications for spray booths and wanted to verify the processing status. Provided an approximate time line of permit issuance based on engineer’s evaluation of Title V facility permit.
2/28	Orange	Major pipeline construction contractor: The company is required to apply for new permits for 16 portable engines for which previous permits had expired due to non-payment of the annual renewal fees. At the request of the company’s management, staff conducted an on-site consultation and provided assistance and explained the District’s permitting requirements for the new applications.
2/28	Los Angeles	Automotive lead battery manufacturer: The facility is sited for operating lead melting furnaces in violation of Rules 1407 & 1420. Provided assistance and explained the permitting and compliance requirements for lead melting pots. An on-site consultation meeting with the company’s management was requested and will be scheduled in near future.
2/28	Los Angeles	Chamber/Business Association: Scheduled business conference, "Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship." Attended and promoted small business programs at a meeting of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
2/28	Headquarters	Served as a panel member at the San Gabriel Valley Business/Community/Education Partnership Regional Advisory Committee Meeting.

INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS ACTIVITY

Intergovernmental Affairs works with local government, state and federal officials in response to their air quality concerns and local issues.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
2/1	Los Angeles	Attended and provided Board member support at League of California Cities Los Angeles County Division General Membership meeting in Monterey Park.
2/5	Riverside	Attended Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) Executive Committee Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules with mayors from the cities of Moreno Valley, Hemet, Murrietta, and Temecula.
2/6	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments Technical Advisory Committee (OCCOG-TAC) Meeting. Answered questions from committee members regarding the AQMP update process and about the relationship between SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and the AQMP.
2/6	Orange	Attended Laguna Niguel City Council Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region with Mayor and Council Members.
2/6	Orange	Attended Aliso Viejo Cityhood Meeting and Candidates Forum. Answered questions regarding AQMD programs, authorities, and responsibilities with members of the audience and the candidates in the Cityhood Election on March 6, 2001.
2/6	Los Angeles	Conference with Staff from City of Santa Fe Springs and subsequent follow-up activities re: compliance with fleet rules and the installation of fueling infrastructure.
2/7	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Board Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Chino, Fontana, Loma Linda, Colton, and Ontario.
2/7	San Bernardino	Met with the Director, Facilities Expansion & Special Projects for Fontana Unified School District, to discuss PR 1195 Clean On Road School Buses.
2/7	Riverside	Met with member of Board of Trustees, Lake Elsinore Unified School District, to discuss PR 1195 Clean On Road School Buses.
2/7	Riverside	Attended Mira Loma Community Meeting.
2/7	Los Angeles	Conference with City of Los Angeles staff re: school bus funding program.
2/8	Riverside	Attended Northwest Riverside County Clean Cities Coalition Annual Stakeholders Meeting. Discussed proposed and recently adopted fleet rules with meeting attendees.
2/8	Orange	Attended Orange County Division, League of California Cities General Membership Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Buena Park, Anaheim, Brea, Lake Forest, and Huntington Beach, as well as the Manager of Government Relations/Legislation, City of Anaheim and the City Manager, City of Huntington Beach.
2/8	Los Angeles	Met with staff from Gateway Cities Economic Partnership re: transportation and air quality issues.
2/8	Los Angeles	Conference with Deputy for Congressmember Jane Harmon re: outreach concept for energy conservation and technology development.
2/9	Los Angeles	Met with Field Representative for Assemblymember Sally Havice re: Proposed Neuva Azalea power generating facility
2/9	Los Angeles	Conference with owner of small waste hauling firm re: fleet rules and infrastructure funding and development.
2/10	San Bernardino	Attended Omnitrans/Alessandro Elementary School Neighborhood Meeting at San Bernardino City Hall regarding emissions from the Omnitrans East Valley Maintenance Facility.
2/13	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments Executive Management Committee (OCCOG-EMC) Meeting. Answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules and AQMP update from committee members and staff.
2/13	Orange	Met with consultant for the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG). Discussed agency interface matters, OCCOG staffing, and OCCOG program direction.
2/13	Orange	Attended Laguna Hills City Council Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region with the mayor and council members.
2/13	Los Angeles	Met with area school districts representative re: PR 1195.
2/13	Los Angeles	Conference, and subsequent project follow-up, with LAUSD Environmental Health & Safety staff re: proposed District K refinery release school notification program.
2/14	Riverside	Attended Riverside County Transportation Commission Meeting (RCTC). Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules with mayors and councilmembers from the cities of Hemet, Temecula, San Jacinto, Lake Elsinore, Banning, Perris, Palm Desert, supervisors from the 1st and 2nd Districts of Riverside County, and RCTC Executive Director.
2/14	Riverside	Met with Board of Trustees Member, Jurupa Unified School District regarding PR 1195 Clean On-Road School Busses. Explained the proposed rule and solicited support.
2/14	Orange	Met with candidate for the Aliso Viejo Cityhood Committee and City Council. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region, ways the AQMD can assist the proposed city after incorporation, and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules.
2/14	Los Angeles	Conference with City of Santa Fe Springs re: fleet rule implementation and infrastructure development.
2/14	Los Angeles	Met with representative from American Lung Association re: asthma rates in the South Coast Air Basin.
2/15	Orange	Attended Aliso Viejo Event. Answered questions regarding AQMD programs, authorities, and responsibilities with community members and candidates in the Cityhood Election on March 6, 2001 who were in attendance.
2/15	San Bernardino	Met with the Assistant Superintendent of Business Services and the Director of Transportation, Upland Unified School District regarding PR 1195 Clean On-Road School Busses. Explained the proposed rule and solicited comment.
2/15	Los Angeles	Attended the San Gabriel Economic Partnership of Commerce and Cities Executive Governing Board meeting.
2/15	Los Angeles	Conference with staff to Congressmember Jane Harmon re: energy conservation technology development within the South Bay Cities.
2/15	Los Angeles	Presentation to School District Board and subsequent meeting with MUSD staff re: PR 1195.
2/20	Riverside	Met with Board of Trustees Member, Jurupa Unified School District regarding PR 1195 Clean On-Road School Buses.
2/20	San Bernardino	Met with Assistant Superintendent and Director of Transportation, Ontario-Montclair School District (OMSD). Explained the proposed rule and solicited comment. Received suggestions that would make the rule more acceptable to OMSD.
2/20	Riverside	Attended Jurupa Unified School District Meeting. Provided support for AQMD presentation regarding PR 1195.
2/21	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Plans & Programs Committee Meeting. Discussed and answered questions about the relationship between SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and the AQMP with SANBAG Board Members and staff.
2/21	San Bernardino	Met with the Mayor of the City of San Bernardino regarding the proposed resolution from the Omnitrans East Valley Maintenance Facility.
2/21	Districtwide	Attended Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) Workshop. Discussed the relationship between SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and the AQMP with SCAG Regional Council Members and staff present.
2/22	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) Board Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Buena Park, Huntington Beach, Los Alamitos, and Anaheim.
2/22	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino County City Managers Meeting. Answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules and AQMP update from committee members.
2/22	San Bernardino	Attended Baldy View Public/Private Coalition CLOUT Meeting. Discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules with council members from the cities of Montclair, Claremont, Pomona, and Upland.
2/22	San Bernardino	Met with the new President of Chaffey College. Briefly discussed recent AQMD accomplishments in improving air quality in the region and discussed the recently adopted fleet rules and PR 1195 – Clean On-Road School Busses.
2/22	Riverside	Attended Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) Board Meeting. Gave new General Manager an update on recent AQMD activities.
2/23	Orange	Attended the Orange County Business Council (OCBC) Legislative Committee Meeting in Irvine. Several members of the Legislature made presentations and discussed the California energy crisis. Talked briefly with each of the legislators, offering cooperation as a resource to their District Office staff.
2/27	Orange	Attended Fullerton Elementary School District Board Meeting. Made presentation on PR 1195 Clean On-Road School Buses.
2/27	Los Angeles	Participated in Santa Monica-Malibu USD PTA Council meeting.
2/27	Los Angeles	Presentation to School District Board re: PR 1195.
2/28	Los Angeles	Conference with coalition of environmental groups re: PR 1195 outreach.

MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

The Communications Unit is responsible for informing and educating the public through the media and through the District’s Communication Center.

Press Relations Highlights
 

Date	Media	Description of Activity
2/1	News Service	Provided information to Gannett News Service regarding RECLAIM.
2/1	Newspaper	Provided information to USA Today on Glendale power plant.
2/2	Television	Provided information to KCET-TV (Ch. 28) regarding AQMD activities and policies related to the electricity crisis.
2/2	Television	Provided information on Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath to OCN-TV.
2/2	Television	Provided information on emergency backup generators to KCET-TV.
2/2	Newspaper	Provided information on alternative fuels projects with Waste Management to the Desert Sun.
2/2	Newspaper	Provided information on cogeneration units to the Los Angeles Times.
2/2-8	Newsletter	Provided information on school bus rule proposal to the School Transportation News.
2/2-8	Newspaper	Provided information on RECLAIM to the Dallas Morning News.
2/5	Television	Provided information concerning Jacuzzi Spas in Irvine to OCN-TV.
2/6	Newsletter	Provided information regarding RECLAIM program changes to Air Daily.
2/6	Newsletter	Provided information on fleet rules to Air Daily.
2/6-7	Newspaper	Provided information and interview with executive officer regarding RECLAIM, power plants to the Washington Post.
2/6-7	Newspaper	Provided information on Synagro and history of AQMD authority to enforce odor complaints at compost facilities to the Riverside Press-Enterprise.
2/7	Newspaper	Provided status of lab analysis of air samples to the Riverside Press Enterprise.
2/7	Newspaper	Provided information regarding CEQA role to the Los Angeles Times.
2/7	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal/EPA on vehicle scrapping rule, generator order, RECLAIM and variance petitions for generators.
2/7	Newspaper	Provided information on mobile sources to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
2/7	Newspaper	Provided information on RECLAIM and power plant issues to the Daily Journal.
2/7	Newspaper	Provided information on crematorium emissions to the Orange County Register.
2/7	News Service	Provided information on the City of Los Angeles’ receipt of MSRC funds for bike patrols to the Copley News Service.
2/8	Newspaper	Provided information regarding AQMD activities and policies related to the electricity crisis to the Oil & Gas Journal.
2/8	Wire Service	Provided information on upcoming Board meeting to the Associated Press.
2/8	Newspaper	Provided information on cogeneration units to the Riverside Press-Enterprise.
2/9	Newsletter	Provided information regarding proposed school bus rule to California Environmental Insider.
2/9	Television	Provided information regarding electricity crisis to CNN.
2/9	Newspaper	Provided information regarding electricity crisis to the Glendale News Press.
2/13	News Service	Provided information to Bridge News regarding Rule 118 and executive orders.
2/13	Newsletter	Provided information to Megawatt Daily regarding power plant executive orders.
2/13	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Daily News, Washington Bureau, regarding low-sulfur diesel fuel rule.
2/13	Newspaper	Provided information to Louisville Courier-Journal regarding Smog-Check.
2/13	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to San Gabriel Valley Tribune regarding Southern California Ozone Study conference.
2/13	News Service	Provided information to Associated Press regarding Southern California Ozone Study conference.
2/13	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times Inland Valley regarding OH Kruse abatement order.
2/13	Newspaper	Provided historical AQMD information to the LA Times.
2/14	Newsletter	Provided information to McGraw Hill regarding recent executive orders related to power generation.
2/14	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times Inland Valley regarding OH Kruse abatement order.
2/14	Newspaper	Provided information to LA Weekly regarding air pollution control equipment manufacturers.
2/14	Television	Provided information to CBS network news regarding energy crisis, power plants and air pollution.
2/14	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal/EPA regarding CEQA process for RECLAIM rule amendments.
2/15	Newspaper	Provided information on AQMD’s clean fleet rules to the Business Press.
2/15	Newspaper	Provide information on mitigation fees to the Press Telegram.
2/16	Newspaper	Provided information regarding Board meeting actions to the Los Angeles Times.
2/16	Radio	Provided information regarding Board meeting actions to Inland Empire News Radio.
2/16	Newspaper	Provided information and interview regarding power plant emissions to the Long Beach Press-Telegram.
2/16	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding power plants.
2/16	All Media	Distributed Board summary to media.
2/20	Newspaper	Provided information to San Bernardino County Sun regarding Omnitrans.
2/20	Newspaper	Provided information to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune on the Ward duck farm
2/20	Newspaper	Provided information to Orange County Register regarding power plants.
2/20-21	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding school bus rule.
2/20-21	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times/Inland Valley regarding OH Kruse.
2/21	Newspaper	Provided information and interview with executive officer to Wall Street Journal regarding power plants.
2/21	Television	Provided information to Channel 13 regarding high emitting facilities.
2/21	Internet	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise Online regarding school bus rule.
2/21	News Service	Provided information to Copley News Service regarding Nueva Azalea power plant.
2/21	Newspaper	Provided information to the Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding school bus rule.
2/21	Newspaper	Arranged interview with executive officer for Wall Street Journal to discuss power plants.
2/22	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times/Inland Valley regarding SBX1 29 (Soto).
2/22	Newspaper	Provided information to San Bernardino County Sun regarding peaker power plant units.
2/23	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times/Inland Valley regarding backup power generators.
2/27	Television	Provided information on soil contamination to KVEA-TV (Ch. 52).
2/27	Newspaper	Provided information regarding penalties and RECLAIM to the Orange County Register.
2/27	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding global warming.
2/27	Newspaper	Provided information and interview with District Counsel to Los Angeles Times regarding US Supreme Court decision on Clean Air Act.
2/27	Newspaper	Provided information and interview with District Counsel to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding US Supreme Court decision on Clean Air Act.
2/27	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Daily News regarding US Supreme Court decision on Clean Air Act.
2/27	Newspaper	Provided information to Inland Valley Daily Bulletin regarding US Supreme Court decision on Clean Air Act.
2/27	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal/EPA regarding Nueva Azalea power plant.
2/27-29	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to Wall Street Journal regarding power plants, Southland meteorology and air quality.
2/28	Television	Provided information to Channel 7 regarding AES.
2/28	News Service	Provided information to the Associated Press regarding energy crisis.
2/28	Newspaper	Provided information regarding the Carl Moyer Program to the San Bernardino Sun.
2/28	All Media	Press conference on City of Los Angeles energy and environmental programs with AQMD Chairman.
2/28-29	Newspaper	Provided information to Orange County Register regarding RECLAIM and power plants.
2/28	Internet	Provided information to IntelliBridge.com regarding fuel cell technology.
2/28	Newspaper	Provided information to San Bernardino County Sun regarding proposed clean school bus rule.

Communication Center Statistics

The Communication Center handles all District main line, CUT-SMOG line and Spanish line calls.
 

Main Line Calls	CUT-SMOG Line	After Hours Calls*	Spanish Line Calls	Total Phone Calls
6,191	3,111	1,813	30	11,994

*Saturday, Sunday and after 9:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

TRANSPORTATION PROGRAMS

Transportation Programs implements Rule 2202, provides AB 2766 outreach and technical assistance to local governments, coordinates with regional planning agencies relative to transportation and air quality issues, and administers additional mobile emission reduction programs and activities.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
2/1-28	Los Angeles	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the following cities: Alhambra, Arcadia, Artesia, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bell, Bell Gardens, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Carson, Cerritos, Cudahy, Glendora, Hawaiian Gardens, Hidden Hills, Inglewood, Irwindale, Lakewood, LaVerne, Lomita, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Montebello, Norwalk, Paramount, Pomona, Rosemead, San Dimas, San Fernando, Santa Monica, Sierra Madra, South El Monte, Walnut, West Covina, West Hollywood.

2/1-28	Orange	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the County of Orange and the following cities: Brea, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Dana Point, Fullerton, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Irvine, La Habra, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Los Alamitos, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Placentia, Orange, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster, Yorba Linda.
2/1-28	Riverside, San Bernardino	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the following cities: Indian Wells, Palm Spring; Ontario.
2/1	Los Angeles	Site visit to the City of Signal Hill to review MSRC Subvention Fund Match application.
2/1	Los Angeles	Site visit to City of Hawaiian Gardens to deliver Rule 1186 and 1186.1 materials.
2/1	Districtwide	Attended monthly SCAG Transportation and Communications meeting.
2/1	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Regional Council meeting.
2/1	Los Angeles	Spoke with Employee Transportation Coordinator at a cruise line to discuss Rule 2202 extension and exemption process.
2/1	Los Angeles	Responded to request from City of Long Beach for various AQMD documents.
2/2	Districtwide	Attended monthly Transportation Conformity Working Group meeting.
2/2	Los Angeles	Provided information to City of Burbank regarding CNG fueling infrastructure.
2/6	Los Angeles	Spoke with a consulting company regarding an upcoming study on wages vs. commute distances for federal employees.
2/6	Los Angeles	Spoke with City of South Gate to confirm their submittal of MSRC Subvention Fund Match application for a propane heavy-duty truck.
2/6	Districtwide	Met with the Telework Steering Committee to discuss employer incentives and the program workplan.
2/6	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments meeting.
2/6	Los Angeles	Spoke with Cal-State University regarding adjusting Rule 2202 survey window requirements.
2/6	Riverside	Worked with County of Riverside regarding Rule 2202 plan calculations.
2/6	Riverside	Provided assistance to a medical center regarding additional strategies for Rule 2202 plan submittal.
2/7	Los Angeles	Met with County of Los Angeles to discuss Rule 2202 program amendments for Triennial Plan.
2/7	Los Angeles	Met with AQMD auditors and discussed the benefits and obstacles of remote sensing technology.
2/7	Los Angeles	Met with an AQIP proposer to discuss ERC AQIP contract.
2/7	Los Angeles	Met with AQIP proposer to discuss AQIP proposal recommendation.
2/7	Los Angeles	Spoke with MTA regarding MTA Draft Long Range Transportation Plan.
2/7	Los Angeles	Attended MTA TAC meeting.
2/7	Riverside	Provided AB 2766 assistance to City of Murrieta regarding a PM10 emission factor to use for calculating emission reductions from paving dirt roads.
2/7	Los Angeles	Provided AB 2766 assistance to City of Paramount regarding emissions reductions of a CNG vehicle compared to a bi-fuel vehicle.
2/8	Los Angeles	Spoke to City of South Gate regarding appropriate emission factors for AB 2766 propane medium-duty truck purchase.
2/8	Los Angeles	Spoke to City of Norwalk regarding emission factors for AB 2766 traffic signal projects.
2/8	Los Angeles	Spoke to City of Bell Gardens regarding calculating cost effectiveness for AB 2766 trip reduction program.
2/8	Districtwide	Provided information to US Postal Service regarding emission reduction credits for Rule 2202.
2/8	Districtwide	Attended Clean Cities 3rd Annual Stakeholders meeting.
2/8	Districtwide	Met with a member of the Telework Steering Committee to discuss the Telework Pilot project.
2/8	Districtwide	Spoke with California Bike-to-Work representative regarding AQMD providing in-kind printing sponsorship.
2/8	Orange	Spoke with City of Santa Ana to discuss AQIP funding opportunities available to the City for financing alternative fuel vehicles.
2/8	Orange	Provided information to City of Anaheim regarding AQIP funding for the City’s Resort Transportation System.
2/8	Orange	Spoke with City of Laguna Niguel regarding traffic synchronization project figures needed to complete emission reductions and cost-effectiveness results.
2/8	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to the City of Whittier regarding Rule 2202 fees.
2/9	San Bernardino	Provided information to City of San Bernardino regarding workshop for infrastructure program for public entities.
2/9	Los Angeles	Provided information to City of Long Beach regarding workshop for infrastructure program for public entities.
2/9	Los Angeles	Provided information to City of Bell regarding workshop for infrastructure program for public entities.
2/9	Los Angeles	Provided information to City of Walnut regarding availability of qualified vehicles under Rule 1191.
2/13	Los Angeles	Discussed issues with City of Walnut regarding Fleet Rule implementation.
2/13	Orange	Responded to the City of Brea regarding information on AQMD Fleet Rules.
2/13	Los Angeles	Spoke with City of La Canada-Flintridge regarding CARB-related statewide Portable Classroom Study.
2/13	Districtwide	Spoke with representative from Federal Highway Administration regarding NO2 Maintenance Plan status.
2/13	Districtwide	Spoke with SCAG regarding status of NO2 Maintenance Plan.
2/13	Los Angeles	Spoke with SCAG regarding a Transportation Conformity matter involving the Army Corps of Engineers.
2/13	Texas	Spoke with representative from the State of Texas regarding an old-vehicle scrapping program being introduced in the state legislature.
2/13	Orange	Provided information to the public regarding use of telecommute credits in Rule 2202.
2/13	Los Angeles	Made a presentation at the Pasadena Transportation Management Association regarding Rule 2202.

2/13	Los Angeles	Participated in a phone conference with the County of Los Angeles regarding their Rule 2202 program.
2/13	North Carolina	Responded to a phone call regarding AQIP from a consultant in North Carolina.
2/13	Los Angeles	Provide assistance to a hospital in Whittier regarding Rule 2202 plan submittal.
2/13	San Bernardino	Assisted an Inland Empire newspaper with a Rule 2202 technical question.
2/13	Orange	Provided assistance to the City of Santa Ana regarding Rule 2202 options.
2/13 & 15	Riverside	Worked with the County of Riverside to develop methodology for Rule 2202 baseline information.
2/14	Orange	Discussed Rule 2202 trip reduction credits with the City of Anaheim.
2/14	San Bernardino	Spoke with SANBAG regarding the SB836 program and the invoicing process.
2/14	Districtwide	Provided information to U.S. Postal Service regarding stationary source credits for use in Rule 2202 submittals.
2/14	Riverside	Responded to an inquiry from an Air Force Base in Riverside regarding their Rule 2202 requirements.
2/14	Los Angeles	Participated in a conference call with AQMD Legal staff and a hospital in West Los Angeles regarding Rule 2202 compliance issues.
2/14	Orange	Provided approval to a Cal-State University to use an electronic survey and random sampling as the methodology of calculating their Rule 2202 average vehicle ridership.
2/14	Los Angeles	Provided clarification to City of Azusa regarding purchasing vehicles using AB 2766 funds.
2/15	Los Angeles	Participated in a phone conference to a University of California campus regarding the procedure of Rule 2202 random sampling and electronic survey process.
2/15	Districtwide	Participated in the California Energy Commission’s public consultation meeting regarding alternative fuels infrastructure funding program.
2/15	Los Angeles	Met with a medical center and AQMD legal staff regarding Rule 2202 compliance issues.
2/15	Los Angeles	Spoke to City of Hawaiian Gardens regarding applying for MSRC Subvention Fund Match Program.
2/20	Districtwide	Participated in a conference call for Regional Transportation Agencies’ Coalition-TAC meeting.
2/20	Los Angeles	Met with Los Angeles County regarding Rule 2202.
2/20	Los Angeles	Attended meeting with AQMD and MTA staff regarding Mobile Source Emission Reduction Credits applications.
2/20	Nevada	Provided information to the City of Henderson regarding ridesharing programs.
2/21	Headquarters	Attended PR1195 Public Consultation Meeting.
2/21	Los Angeles	Spoke with a spa manufacturer regarding Rule 2202 strategies.
2/21	Districtwide	Conducted Rule 2202 Employers Roundtable meeting. Provided status on transportation and air quality programs and activities.
2/21	Orange	Discussed AQIP proposal with a refuse hauling company.
2/21	San Bernardino	Discussed AQIP proposal with Running Springs CHP.
2/21	Los Angeles	Attended SCAG Transportation and Communication Committee regarding SCAG 2001 Draft Regional Transportation Program (RTP) update.
2/21	Los Angeles	Attended ARB State Implementation Plan Development Symposium.
2/21	Districtwide	Spoke with SCAG regarding alternative fuel implementation and conformity issues for the SCAG Draft 2001 RTP.
2/21	Orange	Discussed AQIP submittal with a hospital in Cerritos.
2/22	Orange	Provided information to the City of Huntington Beach regarding Rule 2202 plan submittal.
2/22	Los Angeles	Attended MTA Long Range Plan Public Hearing.
2/22	Districtwide	Participated in a conference call of STAPPA/ALAPCO Conformity Working Group regarding ozone 8-hour standards.
2/22	Los Angeles	Responded to a university regarding Rule 2202 multi-site submittals.

2/22	Districtwide	Spoke with staff from the Federal Highway Administration regarding emission reductions attributed to MAGLEV (magnetic levitation) Project and replacement strategies.
2/23	Los Angeles	Attended Westchester/LAX Transportation Management Association Network meeting. Gave a Rule 2202 update.
2/27	Districtwide	Reviewed and provided comments on the draft EPA grant application submittal for a "Drive Clean" project.
2/27	Los Angeles	Attended MTA Transportation Demand Management/Air Quality Subcommittee.
2/27	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to the City of Pasadena regarding their Rule 2202 program.
2/27	Orange	Attended a Fullerton School District Board meeting to hear a presentation on Proposed Rule 1195.
2/27	Los Angeles	Attended a Baldwin Park School District Board meeting to observe a presentation on Proposed Rule 1195.
2/28	San Bernardino	Spoke with a charity organization and discussed the AQIP contracts awarded at the last Board meeting, and the funding available for the next quarter.
2/28	Riverside	Met with a municipal water district to discuss vehicle evaluation of a Honda Insight that was leased to them for two months.
2/28	Districtwide	Attended AQMP Working Group/Socioeconomic Technical and Modeling Advisory Group meeting on the Draft RTP and ARB’s 2001 Clean Air Plan.
2/28	Los Angeles	Discussed on-line survey instrument and requirements of Rule 2202 record-keeping software with a medical provider in Woodland Hills.
2/28	Los Angeles	Spoke with County of Los Angeles regarding Rule 2202 surveying activities at a superior court.
2/28	Los Angeles	Responded to questions about Rule 2202 compliance with the American Red Cross.
2/28	Districtwide	Attended a meeting regarding Bureau of Automotive Repair Vehicle Retirement Rules and CARB Voluntary Accelerated Vehicle Retirement Regulations.
2/29	Los Angeles	Spoke with staff at PS Enterprises to discuss a symposium for airport shuttle operators.

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