South Coast Air Quality Management District

Public Affairs Report

SYNOPSIS: 

This report highlights the May 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 May. 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	Town Hall Meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at the Huntington Beach Library.
Ambient Monitoring of Air Toxics	MATES-II and Microscale Study: Completed. Governing Board approved MATES II Study at March 2000 meeting.
Community Response Teams	No activity reported for this period.
CEQA Commenting	Commenting Reporting Period: May 2001 Requests to AQMD for document review          0 Documents received this reporting period         49 Documents to receive AQMD comments:        26 Comment letters sent out this reporting period:   5
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	Rule 1195 – Clean On-Road School Buses was adopted at the April Governing Board 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 May.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
5/6	Orange	Staffed information table and provided general air quality information at the American Lung Association's Free To Breathe Kite Festival at Huntington Beach Pier.
5/8	Los Angeles	Staffed information table, provided air quality information and answered questions about AQMD career opportunities at a career fair hosted by Pathways Communications Academy at Diamond Bar High School.
5/8	Los Angeles	Coordinated Educators Conference on Air Pollution and Children's Health at Industry Hills Sheraton in the City of Industry. About 100 people attended.
5/12	Los Angeles	Staffed an information table at the City of Downey Community Fair.
5/15	Los Angeles	Staffed an information table at Princess Cruises Rideshare Fair in Santa Clarita.
5/19	Orange	Staffed an information table at Garden Grove Safety Fair.
5/21	San Bernardino	Staffed information table and facilitated Montclair Walkers meeting at Montclair Plaza shopping center. The event was a kickoff of four Montclair Walkers events sponsored by AQMD as part of the Governing Board's Senior Citizens Outreach initiatives.
5/21	San Francisco	Made a presentation on "Air Quality Public Information Programs" at the American Thoracic Society International Conference. Met with representatives from US EPA and American Lung Association (ALA) affiliates to discuss ALA’s recently released "State of the Air" report.

5/24	Headquarters	Phone conference with the Delaware Department of Environmental Quality requesting information on our experience in conducting community meetings and expanded public participation. Will provide sample meeting notices and risk communicating pieces. Referenced a conference on Public Involvement that USEPA will be hosting in June.
5/24	Headquarters	Spoke with American Lung Association of Orange County staff regarding an "EJ and Asthma Coalition" they have established and a planned Stakeholders meeting, to be held in August. AQMD will assist in program implementation.

Events/Conferences Sponsored/Hosted	Participated/Attended
8 / 6	8 / 8

Public Workshops/Notices	Fee Review Requests
7 / 5	4

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 for District staff members to speak on a variety of air quality-related issues. The District also 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 May.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
5/25	Headquarters	Offered an air quality overview slide presentation and tour of AQMD headquarters to a 28-member delegation of provincial environmental officials from China.
5/31	Headquarters	Provided an air quality overview and tour of AQMD headquarters to the City of Industry Lions Club.

Speaking Requests Received	Presentations (by Public Advisor staff)
6	4
Delegations Hosted	Tours of AQMD Headquarters
1	2

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
361	94	338	6,575	6,913

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

AQMD assists businesses by notifying them of proposed regulations so they can participate in their development. Staff provides personalized assistance and 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
5/1-31	Headquarters	Expired Permit Program: Contacted 24 companies and retained 42 permits for a total revenue retention of $12,608.50.
5/1	Los Angeles	Chemical product manufacturer: Existing facility that is subject to give public notice because of possible health risks from toxic air pollutants emitted. Translated the required public notice to Spanish for publication and distribution.
5/1	Los Angeles	Food production company: Operates boilers in violation of Rule 1146.1 and will be subject to District’s abatement order. Provided assistance completing a viable and achievable compliance plan and schedule to be included in the pending abatement order.
5/1	Los Angeles	Auto body repair shop: Received NOV for operating a spray booth without a permit. Visited shop and assisted in filling out application forms. Also discussed associated compliance issues.
5/1	Orange	Metal product manufacturer: Existing facility is expanding to include two new nickel/gold plating lines including control equipment. Provided and explained applicable rules, BACT requirements, and assisted in the completion and submittal of the required application package.

5/2	Los Angeles	Gasoline station: Existing business that was recently inspected by AQMD compliance staff and issued a Notice to Comply regarding Rule 461. Provided and explained applicable rules and assisted in complying with the issued notice.
5/2	San Bernardino	School district: Requested assistance with rule and permit requirements concerning their existing boilers. Provided and explained applicable rules, BACT, and an application package.
5/2	Orange	Dry cleaning machine distributor: Conducted an on-site inspection and meeting with the vendor on the newly arrived petroleum solvent machine imported from Italy. Inspected the equipment and discussed the emission control features on the new machine. Also provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements for petroleum solvent dry clean machines.
5/2	Orange	Electronic product manufacturer: Requested assistance regarding the installation of an emergency internal combustion engine to address the energy crisis. Provided and explained applicable rules, BACT, and the required application package.
5/3	Los Angeles	Educational institution: Local college that has in place a vocational technical program that includes automotive collision repair. Requested assistance regarding applicable rule and permit requirements. Provided and explained the applicable rules, BACT, and permit requirements.
5/3	Los Angeles	Dry cleaner: Operating equipment without a valid permit. Provided assistance and worked with permitting and compliance staff to resolve problems with the permit application. The goal is to issue a new permit without having the applicant replace the existing unit with a new machine.
5/3	Los Angeles	Asian Business Association meeting held in conjunction with Korean Chamber of Commerce and American Indian Chamber of Commerce. Interaction with community leaders and business executives.

5/3	Los Angeles	Lighting fixture manufacturer: Relocated and purchased used spray booth. However, the specifications they submitted with their permit application did not match the booth. They asked for assistance in correcting the equipment description on permit. Went to facility and helped them draft a letter requesting permit be reissued with correct description.
5/3	Los Angeles	Telephone company/general contractor: Installing new equipment, including emergency generator. AQMD engineer processing application determined two schools were potentially less than 1,000 feet from equipment and wanted distances checked. Using GPS, determined both schools were less than 1,000 feet and notification would be required.
5/4	Los Angeles	Amusement/entertainment: Existing facility that is subject to give public notice pursuant to Rule 212 regarding the installation and operation of an emergency internal combustion engine. Translated the required public notice to Spanish for publication and distribution.
5/4	Los Angeles	Crude oil producer: Plans on substantial expenditure to install micro turbines. Conducted investigations of the pending permit application and the potential impacts of the use of micro turbines to the pending crude oil production equipment permit application. Also facilitated a meeting between the management team and District’s engineering and permitting staff to discuss permitting issues.
5/4	Los Angeles	Environmental engineering consultant: Serving the local motion picture industry to help them achieve compliance with the new requirements for Rule 1425 – Film Cleaning Machines. Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements.
5/4	Los Angeles	Dry cleaner representing the local trade association: Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements for new petroleum solvent dry cleaning machines. Also provided consultation and discussed the future rule making effort by the AQMD on perc dry cleaning machines.

5/4	Los Angeles	Environmental agency: Request came through the Los Angeles Business Revitalization Center. Requested participation in one of their industry workshops. Gave a presentation regarding our business assistance programs and participated as a member of agency representatives on a panel to address questions and concerns from the attendees.
5/8	Los Angeles	Property management: Existing commercial office building that has a boiler subject to Rule 222-B. Provided and explained applicable rules and assisted in the completion and submittal of the required application package.
5/8	Orange	Local medical food manufacturer: Plans to install emergency power generation equipment. Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements for stationary emergency power generation equipment.
5/8	Los Angeles	Auto body repair shop: Plans to purchase new spray booth. Needed help with permit application. Visited shop and met with owner, who said the company he is purchasing booth from is handling the application. Discussed the length of the processing time and he thought he might want to have expedited processing. Talked to spray booth company regarding submitting application for expedited processing.
5/8	Los Angeles	Lithographic printer: Recently purchased new press and wanted help applying for the permit. Went to shop and talked to owner. Advised him to obtain Material Safety Data Sheets of all inks and graphics arts materials and showed him how to keep records. Will return to look at the records in several weeks to determine whether the usage is above exempt limits in Rule 219.
5/8	Los Angeles	Metal furniture manufacturer: Has abrasive blasting room and dust collector and wants to apply for permits. Visited facility and inspected blasting room and dust collection system. Discussed the dust collector with one of our permitting engineers, who thought it would not be permittable. Faxed the owner a copy of our permitting guidelines for this equipment and suggested he find an equipment supplier who could advise him on correct equipment and proper sizing.
5/9	Orange	International screenprinting association: Will be hosting an expo in Orange County in the near future. The expo coordinator requested assistance regarding applicable rules and permits requirements. Provided and explained the applicable rules, BACT, and permit requirements.
5/9	San Bernardino	Visited the Cal-EPA Permit Assistance Center Director. Provided assistance and consultation on permitting and compliance issues. Discussed CPUC’s micro turbines incentive program.
5/10	Headquarters	At the request of the Chairman of the AQMD Hearing Board, made presentation to a joint meeting of Hearing Boards from SCAQMD, ARB, and the Bay Area AQMD regarding the role of Small Business Assistance in the variance process.
5/10	Los Angeles	Auto body shop: Recently inspected and cited by a District inspector. At the request of District Prosecutor, translated and mediated regarding the settlement of the violation. The assistance was given in Spanish.
5/10	Los Angeles	Aggregate production facility: Request came through the Los Angeles Business Revitalization Center. Requested assistance regarding the installation of an emergency internal combustion engine to address the energy crisis. Provided and explained applicable rules, BACT, and assisted in the completion and submittal of the required application package.
5/16	Los Angeles	Metal plating shop: Scheduled for abatement order hearing because of operation without permits. Went to facility again and reviewed the specifications they are putting together on their plating tanks and plating lines. Made suggestions on how to better document the information and discussed how we will eventually put together the applications.
5/18	Los Angeles	Dry cleaner: Operates with expired permit. Provided assistance and consultation on permitting and compliance requirements for dry cleaning equipment, including policy and procedures of post permit denial processes, petition for a variance or abatement order, and timeline and steps to take in order to achieve final compliance.
5/18	San Bernardino	San Bernardino Leadership Program: Monthly meeting. Interaction with public officials, community leaders, and business executives.

5/18-19	San Bernardino	"Calif. Autobody Expo 2001": Staffed booth and promoted Small Business Assistance programs. Air Quality Assistance Fund outreach was given to attendees and other exhibitors.
5/18	Los Angeles	Gutenberg Festival (graphic arts & printing trade show): Set up and managed AQMD outreach and information booth at Long Beach Convention Center.
5/18	Los Angeles	Auto body repair shop: Received Notice to Comply for unpermitted prep station in their shop and they submitted an application. Our permit processing engineer asked staff to go to the shop to obtain additional information on the equipment. Discovered there were two prep stations. Explained that another application would have to be submitted. Assisted with completing the forms.
5/19	Orange	Korean Drycleaners & Laundry Assoc. of So. Calif: 35th semi-annual technical seminar. Discussed District’s permitting and compliance policies and requirements for dry cleaning equipment. Also provided assistance to individual seminar attendees.
5/22	Los Angeles	Wood furniture manufacturer: Small business recently inspected and cited by AQMD compliance staff. Provided and explained applicable rules and assisted with recordkeeping requirements. Assistance was given in Spanish.
5/22	Orange	Dry cleaner: Requested an increase in allowable perc usage for the permitted dry cleaning machine. Provided assistance completing a change of permit condition application.
5/22-23	Los Angeles	Dry cleaner: Cited for operating dry cleaning machine in violation of exceeding allowable perc usage limits. The company objects to the violation and argued that the perc content in waste material disposals were not deducted from the perc usage calculations by the inspector. The company requested assistance in the violation determination. Working with compliance and district counsel, staff began the investigation and attempted to find resolution to the problem.

5/22	Orange	Electrical component manufacturer: Requested assistance regarding BACT, permit and rule requirements related to the coating of the various products and equipment. Provided and explained applicable rules, BACT, and the required application package.
5/23	Los Angeles	Refinery: Existing facility that is subject to give public notice pursuant to District Rule 212 regarding the installation and operation of eleven new or modified pieces of equipment. Translated the required public notice to Spanish.
5/23	Los Angeles	Dry cleaner: Plans to replace existing dry cleaning machine and requested financial assistance. Provided assistance and referred the applicant to District’s AQAF program.
5/23	San Bernardino	Cal-EPA Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center: Regularly scheduled visit. Provided assistance and consultation on updating the status of SCAQMD air permit application for various power plant projects within Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center’s area.
5/23	Los Angeles	Cal-EPA Business Revitalization Center: Provided assistance and consultation on updating the status of SCAQMD air permit application for various power plant projects within Los Angeles Permit Assistance Center’s area.
5/23	Los Angeles	Food manufacturer: Received NOV for unloading more flour into two storage silo systems than allowed by permit conditions. Project manager came in to submit applications for change of permit conditions. He also wanted to submit petition for variance. Suggested instead that he submit expedited applications for the changes, while trying to keep below permit condition limits. Assisted him in putting together complete applications.
5/24	Los Angeles	Metal plating facility: Existing business recently inspected and cited by AQMD compliance staff. Provided and explained applicable rules and permit requirements, including BACT.

5/24	Orange	Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – Orange County: Business meeting. Promoted Small Business Assistance Programs, Air Quality Assistance Fund, and gave information regarding updates on energy related issues.
5/24	Los Angeles	Commercial building developer: Plans to install emergency power generation and boiler equipment for a new building project. Provided assistance and consultation completing permit applications for engines and boilers.
5/24	Orange	Cooling and heating manufacturer: New business start-up requesting assistance with permit and rule compliance. Provided and explained applicable rules and permit requirements, including BACT.
5/24	Los Angeles	Commercial building developer: Plans to install emergency power generation and boiler equipment for a new building project. Provided assistance and consultation completing permit applications for engines and boilers.
5/29	Los Angeles	Insurance adjuster: Evaluating claim estimates which include sandblasting operations. Provided assistance and explained compliance requirements for abrasive blasting operations.
5/29	Los Angeles	Metal plating job shop: Facing order of abatement hearing and must submit permit applications immediately. Went to shop for fourth time to meet with owner and manager. Worked out which tanks and plating lines they will continue to use and how to incorporate them into permit units for applications.
5/30	Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino	Chamber/Business Association: "Business and Economic Symposium." Keynote Speaker: Vicente Fox Quesada, President of Mexico; Dr. Edward Leamer, Director of UCLA Business; and Mr. Quinn Stills, featured commentator on CNN, CNBC and the Business Channel. Networked and distributed information regarding our SCAQMD, Small Business Assistance and Air Quality Assistance Fund programs. Also promoted our upcoming International Conference, "Clean Air Technologies 2001."

5/29-31	Sacramento	Requested by California Office of Foreign Investment. Provided assistance in evaluating emissions estimate and AQMD’s permitting requirements for a proposed ceramic floor tile manufacturing facility to be located in Riverside County by a company based in foreign country.
5/31	San Bernardino	New 145 megawatt power plant project: Working in conjunction with Cal-EPA Permit Assistance Center Ontario office, provided assistance in US EPA Title IV- Acid Rain compliance plan application.

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
5/1	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments Technical Advisory Committee (OCCOG-TAC). Participated in the meeting and answered questions regarding the diesel fleet rules and the upcoming AQMP revisions.
5/1	Los Angeles	Conferred with City of Los Angeles staff re: soil remediation.
5/1	Los Angeles	Conferred with Assemblymember regarding funding for alternate fuel vehicle fleets.
5/2	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Board Meeting. Discussed AQMD progress toward attainment and the diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Fontana, Upland, Chino, and Loma Linda.
5/2	Los Angeles	Conferred with City of Vernon staff re: power generation public outreach.
5/3	Districtwide	Attended SCAG General Assembly, Implementation and Policy Committees and Regional Council Meetings. Discussed issues surrounding the recently adopted Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with Regional Council Members in attendance.
5/3	Los Angeles	Conferred with staff to Los Angeles County re: outreach to local governments and small businesses.
5/3	Los Angeles	Conferred with San Gabriel Valley COG staff re: community outreach.
5/4	Los Angeles	Conferred with San Gabriel Valley city Mayor re: strategic outreach planning and implementation.
5/7	Riverside	Attended Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) Executive Committee Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Hemet, Moreno Valley, Corona, and Norco.
5/8	Riverside	Attended Temecula City Council Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules with Mayor and a Council Member.
5/8	Riverside	Attended Jurupa Unified School District Board Meeting to provide support to Board Member and Superintendent for Board consideration of joining the Northwest Riverside Clean Cities Coalition as a Principle Stakeholder.
5/8	Los Angeles	Conferred with Gateway Cities region representatives regarding power generation issues.
5/8	Los Angeles	Conferred with office of Los Angeles City Councilmember regarding LADWP mitigation projects.
5/9	Riverside	Attended Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) Board Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Perris, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and Banning.
5/9	Los Angeles	Conferred with South Whittier county coordinating councilmember regarding fleet rule implementation.
5/10	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Major Projects Committee Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Yucaipa, Redlands, and Colton.
5/10	Orange	Attended Orange County Division League of California Cities General Membership Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules with mayors and council members from the cities of Buena Park, Santa Ana, Brea, La Habra, and Fountain Valley.
5/11	Los Angeles	Conferred with South Bay cities association regarding 710 freeway study project.
5/14	Riverside	Attended Riverside Division League of California Cities General Membership Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules and SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with mayors and council members from the cities of Perris, Moreno Valley, Temecula, Banning, and Palm Desert.
5/15	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Meeting.
5/15	San Bernardino	Attended Fontana City Council Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules and SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with Mayor, Council Members, and City Manager.
5/16	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Plans & Programs Committee Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules and SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with mayors from the cities of Yucaipa, Chino, and San Bernardino.
5/16	San Bernardino	Attended Upland Chamber of Commerce Spring Mixer. Discussed air quality improvements and recently adopted diesel fleet rules with city officials, members of the Upland business community, and residents in attendance.
5/17	San Bernardino	Attended Inland Empire Division League of California Cities General Membership Meeting. Discussed the diesel fleet rules and SCAG’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with mayors, council members, and city administrators from the cities of Grand Terrace, Colton, San Bernardino, Chino Hills, and Rancho Cucamonga.
5/18	Orange	Attended Orange County Public Affairs Association (OCPAA) Legislative/Energy Crisis Forum. Speakers were Public Utilities Commission President, State Senator (34th District), Assembly Member (70th District), UC Irvine Professor and expert in deregulation, and Orange County Register columnist.

5/22	Los Angeles	Conferred with staff to City of Pasadena regarding power generation.
5/24	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) Board Meeting. Discussed AQMP update timing with the Board and answered questions regarding the status of COG funding for air quality activities and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP.
5/24	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino County City Managers Meeting. Discussed AQMP update timing and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP with the city managers from Highland, Loma Linda, Chino, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, and Fontana.
5/24	San Bernardino	Met with San Bernardino City Administrator and Assistant to the City Administrator regarding questions about implementation of Rule 1193 – Clean On-Road Refuse Trucks.
5/24	Riverside	Attended Riverside Transit Agency Board Meeting. Discussed AQMP update timing and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP with members of the Board from the cities of San Jacinto, Hemet, Banning, Temecula, Norco, and Perris.
5/25	San Bernardino	Attended Baldy View Public/Private Coalition (CLOUT) Meeting. Discussed AQMP update timing and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP with council members, staff and chamber of commerce members from Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Diamond Bar, Fontana, Chino, Chino Hills, and Claremont.
5/29	Orange	Met with Air Quality Consultant to the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG). Discussed issues raised at the May 24, 2001 OCCOG Board of Directors Meeting.
5/29	Los Angeles	Conferred with staff to City of Commerce regarding Power generation.
5/31	AQMD	Attended Rule 1194 Workshop at the Proud Bird in Los Angeles. Discussed Alternative Fuel Programs with attendees.
5/31	Riverside	Attended Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) Annual General Assembly in Perris. Discussed Diesel Fleet Rule Implementation and AQMP update timing, and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP with local elected officials and staff from cities, county, and regional agencies in attendance.
5/31	Riverside	Met with Temecula Council Member. Discussed Diesel Fleet Rule Implementation and AQMP update timing, and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP.
5/31	Riverside	Met with Perris Mayor. Discussed Diesel Fleet Rule Implementation and AQMP update timing, and the possibility of "backstop" measures being included in the AQMP

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
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information concerning use of settlement funds and backup generators to the Los Angeles Times.
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information concerning use of backup generators to Energy User News.
5/1	Radio	Provided information on telecommuting to Swedish National Public Radio.
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information on air quality to the San Bernardino Sun.
5/1	Magazine	Provided information on school bus rule to Butane/Propane News.
5/1	Radio	Provided interview regarding American Lung Association report on air quality to KFI Radio.
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information to Orange County Register on American Lung Association Report.
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information to San Gabriel Valley Tribune on RECLAIM.
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information to LA Times/Inland Valley section on NOV issued to contractor.
5/1	Newspaper	Provided information on the Tosco refinery fire to Random Lengths.
5/1	Radio	Coordinated conference call to provide information on the telecommuting pilot program to KFWB.
5/1	Newspaper	Coordinated interview with Henry Hogo to provide information on Omnitrans to Precinct Reporter.
5/1	Television	Provided information on the CUT-SMOG program to KTLA’s live morning news program.
5/1	Television	Provided information on AQMD’s monitoring stations to KNBC-4.
5/1-2	Wire Service	Provided information to Associated Press on diesel backup generators.
5/1-3	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to Riverside Press-Enterprise on diesel backup generators.
5/2	Newspaper	Provided information and interviews concerning RECLAIM program to the Los Angeles Times.
5/2	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal-EPA on RECLAIM.
5/2	Newspaper	Provided information to Ann Arbor (Mich.) News on American Lung Association Report.
5/2	Newspaper	Provided information on the Tosco refinery fire to Random Lengths.
5/2	Internet	Provided information on the Tosco refinery fire to LBReport.com.
5/2	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise on American Lung Association Report.
5/3	Newspaper	Met regarding RECLAIM with the Los Angeles Times.
5/3	Newspaper	Provided information on various air cleanup funds to the Los Angeles Times.
5/3	Newspaper	Provided information to San Bernardino County Sun on air quality trends.
5/3	Magazine	Provided information to Auto Club magazine regarding air quality trends.
5/3	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise on school bus funding.
5/4	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise on microturbines.
5/4	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise on historic air quality.
5/4	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times on AES settlement.
5/4	Newspaper	Provided information to San Bernardino County Sun on CNG buses.
5/4	Radio	Provided information to Inland Empire News on RECLAIM.
5/8	Television	Helped KTTV (Ch. 11) with information on air quality forecast.
5/8	Newspaper/ Newsletter/ New Service	Contacted reporters concerning RECLAIM press briefing.
5/8	Newspaper	Provided information to Huntington Beach Wave on microturbines.
5/8	Newspaper	Provided information to Temecula Californian on green diesel and school bus funding.
5/8	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal/EPA on RECLAIM.
5/8	Newspaper	Provided information on the Teledyne facility to Press Enterprise.
5/9	Newspaper/ Newsletters/ News Service	Held RECLAIM Press briefing, and assisted reporters afterwards, covered by: San Bernardino Sun, Daily Breeze, Associated Press, Press-Enterprise, BNA Publications, California Energy Markets, McGraw-Hill, Inside Cal-EPA.
5/10	Newspaper	Provided information on RECLAIM to the Los Angeles Times.
5/10	Newsletter	Provided information on RECLAIM to Clean Air News.
5/10	Radio	Provided information to Inland Empire News on RECLAIM.
5/10	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Daily News on Sunshine Canyon Landfill.
5/11	All	Assisted media covering RECLAIM amendment adoption.
5/11	All	Issued news release on RECLAIM, Board Summary to media.
5/11	Newsletter	Provided information to Air Daily on RECLAIM.
5/11	Radio	Provided information to Metro Networks News on RECLAIM.
5/15	Newsletter	Provided information regarding power plant to McGraw-Hill Publications.
5/15	Magazine	Provided information to U.S. News and World Reports on PM2.5 monitoring.
5/15	Internet	Provided information to MSNBC regarding wet cleaning.
5/15	Newspaper	Provided information to San Gabriel Valley Tribune on Clean Air Solvent Certification program.
5/15	Newspaper	Provided information to Torrance Daily Breeze on permitting of LADWP peaker units.
5/15	Radio	Coordinated phone interview on Which Way LA public affairs program.
5/16	Television	Provided information on air quality forecasts to KABC-TV (Ch. 7).
5/16	Television	Provided status on upcoming air quality report to KMIR-TV.
5/16	Newspaper	Provided information to The Californian on electric vehicles.
5/16	Newsletter	Provided information to the T Sector on fuel cells.
5/17	Newspaper	Provided information on mitigation fee projects to the Los Angeles Times.
5/17	Television	Provided information to KTTV (Ch. 11) regarding energy crisis and fuel cells.
5/17	Newsletter	Provided information to McGraw-Hill regarding RECLAIM.
5/17	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding electric vehicles.
5/18	Newspaper	Provided information to the Whittier Daily News regarding oil refineries.
5/18	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise on power plant permitting.
5/18	TV	Provided information to Channel 2, Anchorage AK, on ship emissions.
5/22	Newspaper	Provided information to LA Times, Inland Valley regarding biodiesel and power plants.
5/22	Newsletter	Provided information to BNA on AQMD position on SB 28X.
5/22	Newspaper	Provided information to Sacramento Bee on diesel backup generators.
5/22	Newspaper	Provided information to AQMD’s regulation of BBQ restaurants to the Los Angeles Daily News.
5/23	All Media	Issued press release and held media availability in Coachella Valley regarding exceedance of the PM10 standard, covered by: Desert Sun, Riverside Press-Enterprise, KMIR-TV & KESQ-TV.
5/23	Newspaper	Provided information on power plant regulations to the Los Angeles Times.
5/23	Newspaper	Provided information concerning permit status for AES Huntington Beach to the Orange County Register.
5/23	All	Issued news release on Coachella Valley PM10   non-attainment.
5/23-24	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to Los Angeles Times regarding West Coast Rendering and RECLAIM.
5/23-25	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding PM10.
5/23	Newspaper	Provided interview to KNX radio on CUT-SMOG program.
5/23	Newspaper	Provided information to San Jose Mercury News on AES.
5/23	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times on smog forecast.
5/24	News Service	Provided information on power plant regulations to Reuters News Service.
5/24	Internet	Provided information to LongBeachReport.com.
5/24	Newspaper	Provided information on Board agenda to the Los Angeles Times.
5/24	News Service	Provided information and interview to Associated Press regarding Reliant Energy.
5/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding Reliant Energy.
5/24	News Service	Provided information to City News Service regarding Reliant Energy.
5/25	Newsletter	Provided information to the Cunningham Report regarding coke pile enclosures.
5/25	Newspaper	Provided information on RECLAIM program to the Los Angeles Times.
5/25	Newsletter	Provided information to BNA regarding Reliant Energy.
5/25	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding PM10.
5/26	Newspaper	Provided information to the Los Angeles Times regarding release at BP refinery.
5/29	Newspaper	Provided information to Desert Sun regarding PM10 forecasts.
5/29	Newspaper	Provided information to San Francisco Chronicle regarding tire burning.
5/30	Newspaper	Provided information on power plant regulation to the San Francisco Chronicle.
5/30	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal-EPA regarding RECLAIM program.
5/30	Newspaper	Provided information to the Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding truck emissions.
5/31	Newsletter	Provided information on power plant pollution controls to BNA Publications.
5/31	Newspaper	Provided information to the Californian regarding air quality trends.
5/31	Newspaper	Provided information to Orange County Register regarding AES permit.
5/31	Newspaper	Provided information to Inland Valley Daily Bulletin regarding wet cleaners.
5/31	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times regarding power plant CEMS data.
5/31	Newsletter	Provided information to McGraw-Hill regarding RECLAIM.

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
6,639	4,548	3,196	56	16,998

*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
5/1-31	Los Angeles	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the following cities: Agoura Hills, Baldwin Park, Bellflower, Burbank, Duarte, Gardena, Glendora, El Monte, Hawthorne, Inglewood, La Mirada, La Puente, Lakewood, Lawndale, Long Beach, Los Angeles City, Los Angeles County, Pasadena, Rosemead, San Gabriel, Santa Clarita, South El Monte, South Pasadena, Torrance, West Hollywood, Westlake Village.
5/1-31	Orange	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the following cities: Anaheim, Brea, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, City of Orange, County of Orange, Stanton.
5/1-31	Riverside, San Bernardino	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the following cities: Big Bear, Corona, Hemet, Indio, Moreno Valley, Palm Desert, Riverside County, San Bernardino.
5/1-31	Districtwide	Met with, or had phone contact with school district superintendents or staff regarding the application for funds from CARB’s Lower Emission School Bus Program: ABC, Anaheim, Bassett, Bellflower, Brea Fontana, Buena Park, Castaic, Culver City, Fullerton, Hacienda/La Puente, Inglewood, La Habra City, Los Alamitos, Lynwood, Rowland Heights, Savanna, Westminster.
5/1-31	Los Angeles	Met with, or had phone contact with representatives from Rule 2202 sites regarding Rule 2202 implementation and compliance, as follows: Burbank - Furniture Store Glendale - Candy Producer Los Angeles - College Los Angeles - County of Los Angeles Los Angeles - Recycling Retailer Los Angeles - Medical Center Los Angeles - Bank Los Angeles - Insurance Company Los Angeles - Water Utility Company North Hollywood - Phone Utility Company Pomona - Spa Manufacturer Pomona - Aerospace Company Pomona - College Sherman Oaks - Retail Clothing Store
5/1-31	Orange	Met with, or had phone contact with representatives from Rule 2202 sites regarding Rule 2202 implementation and compliance, as follows: Costa Mesa - Office Machine Manufacturer Irvine - Communications Company Laguna Beach - Resort Newport Beach - Auto Club Orange - City of Orange Santa Ana - Electronics Manufacturer
5/1-31	San Bernardino	Met with, or had phone contact with representatives from Rule 2202 sites regarding Rule 2202 implementation and compliance, as follows: Chino - City of Chino Fontana - Steel Manufacturer Ontario - Shipping Company Ontario - Newspaper Ontario - Distributing Facility Redlands - Hospital
5/1-31	Riverside	Met with, or had phone contact with representatives from Rule 2202 sites regarding Rule 2202 implementation and compliance, as follows: Coachella - Industrial Manufacturer La Quinta - Resort Perris - RV Sales
5/1-31	Los Angeles	Staff coordinated arrangements for, and attended, the Airport Shuttle Operators Workshop held on May 31.
5/1	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments Technical Advisory Committee meeting.
5/1	Districtwide	Participated in a conference call of the MSRC-TAC Administrative Subcommittee.
5/1	San Bernardino	Provided technical assistance to the County of San Bernardino regarding their AQIP proposal.
5/1	Districtwide	Made contact with Federal Highway Administration, ARB, and the Coalition for Clean Air regarding the 2001 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).
5/1	Districtwide	Attended a meeting with SCAG staff regarding RTP conformity requirements.
5/2	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Diamond Awards Luncheon to honor companies with exceptional rideshare programs.
5/2	Los Angeles	Contacted MTA staff regarding their Long Range Transportation Plan.
5/2	Los Angeles	Showcased an electric vehicle at a Clean Car Outreach event at Neutrogena.
5/2	Orange	Provided assistance to an engineering services company regarding Rule 1620 mobile source emission reduction credit applications.
5/2-3	Headquarters	Conducted Rule 2202 Employee Transportation Coordinator training.
5/3	Districtwide	Attended SCAG’s Regional Council, General Assembly, and Transportation & Communication meetings.
5/3	Districtwide	Contacted Caltrans staff regarding MAGLEV project.
5/3	Districtwide	Contacted SCAG Legislative staff, MTA staff, and ARB staff regarding current High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) legislation.
5/4	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to the County of San Bernardino regarding AQMD’s policy for submitting proposals in response to RFPs.
5/8	Riverside	Attended the SR91 Hot Lane Feasibility Steering Group.
5/8	Los Angeles	Spoke with ARB staff regarding draft language for MTA HOV Performance Evaluation Task Force Policy for Air Quality.
5/8	Orange	Provided assistance to a vehicle scrapping company regarding Rule 1610.
5/8	Los Angeles	Spoke with ARB staff regarding regulations for small off-road engines.
5/8	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to the County of San Bernardino regarding their AQIP proposal.
5/8-10	Los Angeles	Contacted UCLA regarding funding for the Arrowhead Air Quality Symposium.
5/8-11	Districtwide	Attended a public hearing regarding the FWHA certification audit at SCAG.
5/9	Los Angeles	Participated in an MTA meeting regarding call for projects.
5/10	Districtwide	Spoke with FHWA staff regarding the use of 2000 census data in the 2001 AQMP.
5/10	Districtwide	Attended MSRC-TAC Subcommittee meeting.
5/10	Los Angeles	Attended the Regional Economic Forecast meeting.
5/16-17	Los Angeles	Conducted Rule 2202 Employee Transportation Coordinator training class in Woodland Hills.
5/17	Orange	Attended an El Toro Airport CEQA and conformity and discussion meeting.
5/17	Districtwide	Attended a meeting with the Building Industry Association of Southern California.
5/23	Districtwide	Attended an RTAC-TAC Rideshare Subcommittee meeting.
5/23	Los Angeles	Attended an MTA TAC call for projects evaluation.
5/23	Orange	Provided assistance to a transportation network regarding their AQIP contract.
5/23	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to the City of West Covina regarding starting up a vanpool program.
5/25	Headquarters	Attended an MSRC Outreach meeting.
5/29	Districtwide	Provided assistance to FHWA staff regarding the Rule 2202 shortfall.
5/31	Districtwide	Attended the Statewide Conformity Working Group meeting in Fresno.
5/31	Los Angeles	Spoke with MTA staff regarding purchase of diesel buses.
5/31	Los Angeles	Attended the San Gabriel Valley International Conference promoting international imports/exports.

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