South Coast Air Quality Management District

Public Affairs Report

SYNOPSIS: 

This report highlights the April 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 April. 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 in San Bernardino at the Paul Villaseñor Public Library on Wednesday, April 25, 2001. AQMD hosted the Asthma and Allergy Foundation Breathmobile in the San Bernardino area on Friday, April 27, 2001 as an additional outreach to the San Bernardino Town Hall Meeting.
Ambient Monitoring of Air Toxics	MATES-II and Microscale Study: Completed. Governing Board approved MATES II Study at March 2000 meeting.
Community Response Teams	Crumb Rubber Manufacturing AQMD staff met with Los Angeles County Supervisor's staff and other regulatory agencies to discuss CRM and possible solutions to potential odors in the community. Jefferson School- Compton Air monitoring has been completed and a meeting was held on Thursday, April 26, 2001 to discuss the data with parents, educators and the community.
CEQA Commenting	Commenting Reporting Period: March 2001 Requests to AQMD for document review          0 Documents received this reporting period         52 Documents to receive AQMD comments:        24 Comment letters sent out this reporting period: 13
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 April.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
4/3	Los Angeles	Two presentations on air quality and health to students at St. Joseph School.
4/3	Orange	Attended the Clean Air Committee meeting of the American Lung Association of Orange County. Helped facilitate AQMD's role in outreach efforts for Clean Air Month.
4/3	Los Angeles	Spoke with a Burbank resident who was concerned about emissions from Burbank Airport and its impact on children in neighboring schools. Burbank Town Hall meeting follow-up.
4/10	Los Angeles	Attended South Bay Community Awareness & Emergency Response meeting regarding emergency response in schools. Response from the Carson Town Hall meeting.
4/17	Orange	Spoke to fifth-grade students at Raymond School in Fullerton about ways individuals can reduce air pollution.
4/17	San Bernardino	Gave a general air quality overview to an environmental economics class at the University of Redlands.
4/17	Los Angeles	Gave a general air quality overview to a geography class at the University of La Verne.
4/18	Los Angeles	Attended Earth Day Fair at Cal State Northridge.
4/18	Los Angeles	Staffed an information table at the Earth Day Fair given by the Recycling Program at Cal State University, Northridge.
4/20	San Bernardino	Staffed an Earth Day event for students at Chino Basin Water Conservation District in Montclair.
	San Bernardino	Staffed information table, distributed air quality literature, answered questions about air pollution and health and signed up 100 new Smogbusters Club members at the Inland Empire Environmental Expo at Cal State San Bernardino. More than 5,000 people attended.
4/23	Los Angeles	Gave a lecture on air pollution to a health science class at Los Angeles Valley College in Van Nuys.
4/25	Los Angeles	Spoke to four classes about air quality and health and AQMD career opportunities at Pomona High School Career Day.
4/26	Orange	Gave Earth Day presentation on air quality at Fairmount School in Anaheim.
4/26	Los Angeles	Participated in a career day at Lexington Elementary School in Pomona. Made presentations to five classes.
4/26	Orange	Attended American Lung Association of Orange County's Clean Air Committee meeting. Finalized logistics for AQMD's role as exhibitors at the May 6 Free to Breathe Kite Festival at Huntington Beach Pier.
4/26	Orange	Attended the Orange County section of the California Regional Environmental Education Community (CREEC) Network steering committee meeting. Set up logistics for AQMD's role in upcoming events.

Events/Conferences Sponsored/Hosted	Participated/Attended
29 / 4	24 / 24

Public Workshops/Notices	Fee Review Requests
8 / 4	2

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 April.
 

Date	Location	Description of Activity
4/6	Headquarters	Offered an air quality overview slide presentation and tour of AQMD headquarters to a chemistry class from Blair High School in Pasadena.
4/10	Headquarters	Gave general air quality overview and tour of AQMD headquarters to a two-member delegation from Portugal consisting of a researcher from the University of Lisbon and a director from the Portuguese Ministry of Environment.
4/13	Headquarters	Set up visit by delegation from Heilonjiang Provincial Environmental Protection Bureau for Friday, April 27.
4/20	Headquarters	Facilitated the visit of Hyun-Jong Hong, Vice President of Environment and Safety Planning of L.G.-Caltex Oil Corp., Seoul, Korea, who met with Compliance and Technology Advancement staff on RECLAIM and zero-emission vehicle technologies.
4/27	Headquarters	Gave a general air quality overview slide presentation to Ping Li of Heilongjiang Provincial Environmental Protection Bureau, China

Speaking Requests Received	Presentations (by Public Advisor staff)
7	23
Delegations Hosted	Tours of AQMD Headquarters
4	3

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
405	189	308	4,320	4,628

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
4/1-5	Headquarters	Worked with United Eco Club members on developing media, entertainment, vendor, and activity plans for upcoming Earth Day fair.
4/1-26	Headquarters	Completed courtesy phone calls to companies that allowed their permits to expire in January and February 2001. There were a total of 457 expired permits. Courtesy phone calls retained 87 permits for total revenue of $29,950.49.
4/3	Los Angeles	Residential condo building: In violation of operating a boiler without a valid permit. The condo has achieved compliance by de-rating the boiler to 2 million Btu/hr. However, the de-rated boiler may not have enough capacity to provide needed heat for the absorption-type air conditioning requirements for the summer season. Senior citizen condo residents may be confronted with serious health problems in the hot summer weather. District Prosecutor requested staff to provide assistance to the homeowners’ association and investigate the feasibility of petitioning for a variance, allowing the boiler to be restored to full capacity pending scheduled purchase of compliant equipment.

4/3	Los Angeles	Metal recycler: New business start-up. Provided and explained the applicable rules and issued a clearance letter.
4/3	Orange	Research & development company: Proposing to install a spray booth. Explained rule requirements, forms, fees and recordkeeping.
4/3	San Bernardino	Repair shop: Received a Notice to Comply for using a solvent-based cleaner. Requested clarification on rule requirements. Explained VOC limits allowed in Rule 1171 for electrical cleaning operations.
4/3	Los Angeles	Metal furniture manufacturer: Requested assistance with application form for dust collector on abrasive blasting room. Explained that, due to its unorthodox construction, our permitting engineers might not find it acceptable for issuance of a permit. Will check with District engineering staff.
4/3	Los Angeles	Wood furniture manufacturer: Had been given numerous requirements by city relating to spray booth and dust collector. Staff visited site and advised that if he moved his spray booth to another part of his building, he would not need to apply for a new AQMD permit.
4/3	Los Angeles	Auto body shop: New owner wanted to obtain permit on spray booth. Explained that previous owner had submitted an application on existing equipment, but a permit had not yet been issued. Assisted him in filling out application for new permit and explained applicable rules.
4/3	Orange	Food products manufacturer: Request came through the Orange County Permit Assistance Center regarding proposed project that will include installation of energy producing equipment. Explained applicable rules, permit applications and BACT requirements.
4/4	San Bernardino	Consultant representing manufacturer: Explained permitting and compliance requirements for emergency power generating equipment. Also provided information on the requirements for regular primary power generation equipment if the facility chooses to pursue this.
4/4	Los Angeles	Auto body shop: Requested assistance regarding change of ownership after being visited by AQMD compliance inspector. Provided and explained applicable rules and application package.
4/4	Los Angeles	Metal product manufacturer: Requested assistance regarding powder coating equipment and oven. Provided and explained applicable District rules.
4/4	Los Angeles	Aerospace: Does aircraft maintenance and needed assistance determining the applicability of Rule 1171 - Solvent Cleaning Operations. Discussed exemptions regarding aerospace component operations and being subject to the provisions of Rule 1124.
4/4	Riverside	Energy resource recovery projects on landfill sites: Requested by Cal/EPA Permit Assistance Center, Inland Empire Office (an extension of Governor’s green team at the local level), participated in a meeting with the energy project developer who sets up landfill gas-fueled power plants. Conducted an inspection on a landfill site and provided assistance and consultation about permitting and landfill gas engines.
4/4	Los Angeles	Plating shop: Based on observations, the following recommendations were given: Spray booths need to have manometers replaced and middle filter row sealed to comply with permit description. Decorative chrome tank needs an ampere-hour meter installed and stalagometer to measure surface tension as required by Rule 1469.
4/4-5	Austin, TX	Gave presentation describing the Boiler Tune-Up Outreach grant project at national conference of Small Business Assistance Officers in Austin, Texas. Discussed the status of their participation in this project.
4/5	Los Angeles	Judged the La Puente Valley Regional Occupational Program Student Recognition program.
4/5	Los Angeles	Retirement home: Proposing to install an emergency internal combustion engine for power generation. Provided application forms, required fees and discussed applicable rule requirements.
4/5	Riverside	Internal combustion equipment manufacturer and distributor: Explained permitting and compliance requirements for landfill gas-fired engines.
4/5	Out of State	Turbine manufacturer: Proposing to operate portable turbines that run on diesel to provide electrical power. Provided information on applicable requirements including BACT, forms and fees.

4/5	Orange	Dry cleaner: Was assessed a penalty for violation of perc leakage requirement. Working with District Prosecutor and Compliance, staff negotiated with the owner and reached a settlement agreement on a reasonable resolution.
4/5	Orange	Food products: Installing an emergency back-up generator and had questions regarding locomotives that are used as portable internal combustion engine power generators. Discussed required permits, BACT and NOx limits.
4/5	San Bernardino	Power plants: Director of Cal/EPA Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center asked us to provide assistance to numerous new power plant development projects.
4/5	Los Angeles	Gasoline dispensing facility: Remodeling project. Provided and explained applicable rules, permit applications and associated fees. Issued a clearance letter.
4/6	Riverside	Furniture manufacturer: Starting up a furniture refinishing shop that will be operating an open spray booth. Requested clearance for the city of Hemet. Exempt per Rule 219(l)(18), issued clearance.
4/6	Los Angeles	Utility company: Adding two cogeneration natural gas engines to address the energy crisis. This project is subject to Rule 212, Public Notice. Provided assistance by translating the required public notice to Spanish.
4/6	Orange	Food product manufacturer. Provided assistance regarding permitting and compliance requirements of VOC emission control and reduction.
4/6	Los Angeles	Tortilla ingredients manufacturer: Planning to move to new location across the street, and needed clearance for city. Visited current facility, determined all equipment is exempt from permits, and provided clearance letter.
4/6	Los Angeles	Furniture manufacturer: Required by city to install new dust collection system and needed clearance. Went to shop and found equipment will be exempt. Discussed potential for public nuisance problems and how to prevent. Issued clearance letter.

4/6	Los Angeles	Lighting fixture manufacturer: Recently relocated. Assisted with permit applications for change of location of spray booths and oven. Visited facility to see if the move had been completed and permits issued. Reviewed the new permits with owner and found problems with one used spray booth they had just purchased. The seller had provided incorrect information on the size and number of filters, so permit was issued with incorrect description. Will check with engineering on how to correct it.
4/6	Los Angeles	Power Utility Company: Requested information regarding the installation of new power generating equipment and clarification of maximum allowable running of existing equipment. Set up a roundtable meeting with the appropriate AQMD permitting staff, provided and explained applicable rules and BACT.
4/10	Los Angeles	Car dealership: Expanding operation and requested assistance with rules. Provided and explained applicable rules and issued a clearance letter.
4/10	San Bernardino	Potential project site owner for a 50-100 MW power plant: Provided assistance regarding permitting and compliance requirements for emissions control and reduction for power generation equipment.
4/10	Los Angeles	Plastics manufacturer: Proposing to modify resin storage system by adding two silos. Discussed application forms, fees and rules.
4/10	Orange	Dry cleaning equipment company: Provided assistance and explained variance petition procedures for operating equipment in violation of rules and regulations.
4/10	San Bernardino	Chemical production facility: Requested assistance expanding its operation to include an emergency internal combustion engine to address the energy crisis. Provided and explained applicable rules and BACT requirements.
4/10	Los Angeles	Los Angeles Fire Department. Participated in a meeting with the City’s fire permitting official regarding the fire permit issues related to hydrocarbon solvent dry cleaning machines. Under the Toxic Control Plan, District is encouraging Southland’s dry cleaners to use non-perc solvent dry cleaning.

4/11	Orange	Restaurant: Opening a BBQ restaurant that will be operating several charbroilers. Discussed requirement of one registration form to cover all charbroilers in the business. Provided forms and fee information.
4/11	Los Angeles	Gasoline dispensing facility: Installing a vapor extraction system that is located within 1,000 ft. of a school. Assisted by translating the required Public Notice to Spanish.
4/11	Los Angeles	Textile processor: Submitted incorrect Form 222-B for their 2.9 MM Btu/hr boiler. Assisted facility with correct forms and fee that applies to the boiler which required a permit.
4/12	Los Angeles	Foam insulation services: Received a Notice of Violation for operating a spray booth without a valid permit. Provided assistance in Spanish. Explained application forms, fees and recordkeeping requirements.
4/12	Riverside	Machinery manufacturer: Manufacturer of large direct-fired heating equipment needed information on how to get certified and what rule emission limits need to be met. Discussed information and provided applicable rules.
4/12	Orange	Air pollution control equipment manufacturer: Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements for woodwork plant.
4/12	Los Angeles	Participated in conference call with the owner of a plating company in Boyle Heights to explain his public notice responsibilities under the Toxic Hot Spots law. Assisted him in understanding how to obtain the necessary mailing list and what sites would be suitable for the meeting.
4/12	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to the Ontario Permit Assistance Center in an effort to expedite the air permitting process for three landfill gas-fueled power generation facilities located in San Bernardino county. Facilitated a meeting between PAC and District’s permitting engineers to accomplish this task.
4/13	Orange	Commercial building projects developer: Investigating the feasibility of installing used emergency power generation equipment relocated from out of state. Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements.

4/13	San Bernardino	Water treatment facility: Produces de-ionized pure water to be used in power plant equipment. Provided assistance and consultation regarding District’s permitting and compliance requirements for used emergency power generating equipment.
4/17	Los Angeles	Miscellaneous product manufacturer: Recently inspected and cited by a District inspector. Provided and explained applicable rules and BACT requirements. Assisted in the partial completion of the required application package.
4/17	Los Angeles	Miscellaneous product manufacturer: Was recently inspected and cited by a District inspector. Provided and explained applicable rules and BACT requirements. Assisted in the partial completion of the required application package.
4/17	Riverside	Auto repair: Opening an auto shop that will be operating a spray booth. Requested clearance for the city of Corona. Submitted complete application in compliance. Issued clearance letter.
4/17	Riverside	Auto body shop: New business start-up. Provided and explained applicable rules and assisted in the completion and submittal of the required application package. Also furnished a clearance letter.
4/17	Los Angeles	Furniture restorer: Submitted an application for existing spray booth. Visited facility to obtain information missing on application. Spray was a very early model without filters. Advised owner that, because of his very low usage, he could remove the baffle board from the booth and treat his spraying as if it were open spraying. Advised that he would have to use an HVLP spray gun and stay below exempt limits in Rule 219.
4/17	Los Angeles	Service station: Received Notice to Comply for operating fuel storage and dispensing equipment without current permit. Assisted owner in completing application forms.
4/17	Los Angeles	Grocery store/restaurant: Expanding by adding restaurant. It will have a charbroiler, so they were asked to obtain clearance letter. Assisted owner in filling out application for registration and provided clearance letter.
4/18	San Bernardino	Chemical production facility: Requesting assistance in expanding its operation to include an emergency internal combustion engine to address the energy crisis. Provided and explained applicable District rules and BACT requirements.
4/18	Los Angeles	City airport: Operates several pressurized hot water jet-stream cleaning units. Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements for these diesel fuel-fired machines.
4/18	Los Angeles	Food production company: Operates three boilers in violation of the low-NOx requirements of Rule 1146.1. Requested by District Prosecutor, staff provided assistance to the company management team in the initial abatement order meeting with the attorney at District headquarters. Staff will be working with the company to formulate a workable compliance plan to be incorporated in the abatement order which is to be approved by the Hearing Board.
4/19	Los Angeles	Gasoline service station: Assisted facility with questions regarding testing requirements which are due by May 1. Discussed fees and Hearing Board variance options if they do not pass the tests.
4/19	Los Angeles	Church: Requested assistance regarding the expansion of the church property and possible future installation of an emergency internal combustion engine. Provided and explained applicable rules and BACT requirements. Issued a clearance letter.
4/19	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to Cal EPA’s Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center staff and explained the District’s permitting and compliance requirements for LPG storage and transfer equipment.
4/20	Orange	Boiler service company: Serves office and residential buildings. Provided assistance and consultation regarding new Rule 1146.2 – permitting and compliance requirements of small boilers.
4/24	Los Angeles	Flexographic printing business: Had concerns about the accuracy of two recently received Notices of Violation. Met with the inspector, discussed the details, and responded to business with information on how they should proceed when the notices reach the District Prosecutor.
4/24	Los Angeles	Printing and publication: Expanding to include two additional printers. Provided and explained applicable rules and assisted in the completion and submittal of the required application package. Also furnished a clearance letter.

4/24	Los Angeles	Petroleum refinery: Modifying one of its berths by adding four electric-driven offloading pumps. The company is subject to Rules 212 & 1710. Translated the two required public notices to Spanish for publication and distribution.
4/24	Atlanta, GA	Out-of-state environmental attorney with local clients: Provided assistance and explained permitting and compliance requirements for stationary and portable emergency power generation equipment.
4/24	Los Angeles	Environmental compliance consultants: Provided assistance and consultation regarding permitting and compliance requirements of gasoline filling station equipment.
4/24	Orange	Car dealership: Requested assistance expanding operation to include an additional paint spray booth. Provided and explained applicable rules and BACT requirements. Assisted in the completion and submittal of the required application package and issued a clearance letter.
4/24	San Bernardino	Conducted a presentation to Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center personnel at its Ontario office on an overview of AQMD’s permitting and engineering evaluation processes for new construction projects, including new power plants. Topics discussed included BACT, emission offsets, RECLAIM, New Source Review requirements, etc.
4/25	Los Angeles	Miscellaneous manufacturing: New business start-up that is installing three paint spray booths and one oven. Is subject to Rule 212 Public Notice. Translated the required public notice to Spanish for distribution.
4/25	Los Angeles	City parks and recreation: Provided assistance filing petition for a variance for Rule 461 violation for 13 city-operated gasoline filling facilities.
4/25	Riverside	Coachella Valley resident: Neighbors a construction project and experiences fugitive dust problems. Provided assistance and explained fugitive emissions rules and requirements. Also assisted with filing a complaint with District’s compliance staff.

4/25	Orange	Miscellaneous product manufacturer. Expanding to include a hot melt adhesive rollercoater. Provided and explained applicable rules and BACT requirements and the required application package.
4/25	Orange	Provided assistance and consultation to the Santa Ana Permit Assistance Center personnel on District’s permitting and compliance requirements for emergency power generation equipment. Also advised on the ARB’s portable engine registration program requirement regarding the emergency generation.
4/26	Los Angeles	Gasoline station: Existing facility that is subject to Rule 461, including reverification testing of their vapor recovery system that is due by 5-1-01. Requested assistance regarding filing for a variance. Explained the Hearing Board and the variance procedures and provided the required application.
4/26	Los Angeles	Local private school: Provided assistance completing a permit application for emergency generator.
4/26	San Bernardino	Auto body shop: Not able to pay the required application fee for a Permit to Operate. Inspector assisted with the completion and submittal of a Fee Review request form and the application package. The assistance was given in Spanish.
4/26	Orange	Chemical products 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.
4/26	San Bernardino	Participated in a meeting at the Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center to provide assistance and consultation on the District’s permitting and compliance requirements for a prospective gas turbine power plant to be installed in Ontario.

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
4/2-19	Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino	Rule 1195 outreach/education activities with school districts.
4/2	San Bernardino	Met with So. Calif. Gas Co. Area Manager regarding issues surrounding reported methyl mercaptan leaks from the Omnitrans Maintenance Facility in San Bernardino.
4/2	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino City Council Meeting. Participated in the city council’s review of problems involving the chronic methyl mercaptan leaks that are apparently escaping from the Omnitrans Maintenance Facility in San Bernardino.
4/2	Orange	Met with Aliso Viejo Council Member Elect. Discussed the transition from unincorporated county to the city’s incorporation and issues that the new city should be aware of regarding air quality matters.
4/2	Riverside	Attended Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) Meeting in Moreno Valley. Discussed and answered questions about the adopted diesel fleet rules as well as proposed Rule 1195 – Clean On-Road School Buses with mayors and council members from the cities of Perris, Murietta, Temecula, and Moreno Valley.
4/4	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Board Meeting. Discussed and answered questions about the adopted diesel fleet rules as well as proposed Rule 1195 – Clean On-Road School Buses with mayors and council members from the cities of Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Big Bear Lake, Ontario, and Chino.
4/5	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Implementation and Policy Committee and Regional Council Meetings. Discussed and answered questions about the adopted diesel fleet rules as well as proposed Rule 1195 with mayors and council members from the cities of Buena Park, Moreno Valley, Los Alamitos, Lake Forest, and La Palma.
4/11	Riverside	Attended Riverside County Transportation Commission Board Meeting. Discussed and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules and proposed Rule 1195 with mayors and council members from the cities of Murietta, San Jacinto, Canyon Lake, Palm Desert, Perris, and Coachella.
4/11	Riverside	Met with Riverside County Supervisor, District 2, to discuss the county desire to convert all of their existing diesel vehicle fleet to clean fuels and the installation of a CNG fueling site in the Mira Loma area.
4/12	Districtwide	Attended Special Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Council Meeting. The Regional Council approved the 2001 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). Discussed the RTP with various elected officials from Orange County and Inland Empire cities.
4/12	Orange	Attended Orange County Division, League of California Cities General Membership Meeting. Discussed and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules and proposed Rule 1195 with mayors and council members from the cities of Buena Park, Brea, Anaheim, Yorba Linda, Huntington Beach, Laguna Niguel, Santa Ana and newly incorporated Aliso Viejo.
4/18	Districtwide	Attended Alameda Corridor East Ad Hoc Committee Meeting. Discussed and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules and proposed Rule 1195 with council members from the cities of Colton and Montclair, assistant city manager from the City of Colton, Public Works Director from the City of Fontana, and SANBAG Executive Director.
4/18	San Bernardino	Attended San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Plans & Programs Committee Meeting. Discussed and answered questions regarding recently adopted fleet rules, proposed Rule 1195, and SCAG’s recently approved Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with mayors and council members from the cities of San Bernardino, Yucaipa, Montclair, and Mayor of Fontana.
4/18	Los Angeles	Conference w/Assemblymember regarding pending legislation.
4/23–24	Sacramento	Attended CLOUT Legislative Tour and California Chamber of Commerce Legislative Summit in Sacramento. Met with legislators, San Bernardino County business leaders, and local elected officials.
4/24	Orange	Met with City of Irvine Mayor. Discussed AQMD progress toward attainment, diesel fleet rules with respect to "real time" experiences and/or problems implementing the rules in the city’s operation, and issues surrounding the proposed El Toro Airport.
4/24	Orange	Attended and made an "Air Quality Status Report" presentation at the Irvine City Council Meeting.
4/24	Los Angeles	Conference w/office of Los Angeles City Councilmember regarding cooperative community-based non-profit organization clean fuel vehicle acquisition project.
4/24	Los Angeles	Conference with City of Huntington Park re: remediation of constituent issue.
4/25	Los Angeles	Conference with San Gabriel Valley Alameda Corridor East Construction Authority staff re: establishing permit liaison for upcoming construction
4/26	San Bernardino	Attended CLOUT Breakfast Meeting. Discussed SCAG Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and LAX Expansion issues with mayors, council members, and city managers from the cities of Ontario, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Claremont, and Fontana.
4/26	Orange	Attended Orange County Council of Governments Board Meeting. Discussed SCAG Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) with mayors and council members from the cities of Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Orange.
4/26	San Bernardino	Attended and participated in the Inland Empire Division, League of California Cities Legislative Task Force Meeting in Rancho Cucamonga.
4/26	Los Angeles	Conference with City of Commerce staff re: proposed air-monitoring project.
4/27	Los Angeles	Conference with staff to San Fernando Valley Assemblymember's office regarding constituent issue.
4/27	Los Angeles	Conference with staff at City of Lakewood re: fleet rule implementation and funding.

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
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to the Los Angeles Times regarding RECLAIM program.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to the Los Angeles Times concerning power plant emissions.
4/3	Newspaper	Submitted Letter to the Editor regarding proposed Rule 1195 to Long Beach Press-Telegram.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to Korea Times regarding fee rule.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to Palm Springs Desert Sun regarding PM10 attainment.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information regarding proposed Rule 1195 to Riverside Press-Enterprise.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to the Desert Sun regarding AQMD dust control programs.
4/3	Newsletter	Provided information to Clean Air Report regarding RECLAIM.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding proposed Rule 1195.
4/3	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside EPA regarding Glendale power plan.
4/3	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal/EPA regarding mitigation fees.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to San Jose Mercury News regarding backup generators.
4/3-5	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Business Journal regarding proposed Rule 1195.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to Torrance Daily Breeze regarding cogeneration units.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding health effects of air pollution.
4/3	Newspaper	Provided information concerning LAXT to the Los Angeles Weekly.
4/4	Newspaper	Provided information to the Los Angeles Times concerning cleanup of rubble pile in Huntington Park.
4/4	Newspaper	Provided information to Wall Street Journal regarding AES, RECLAIM.
4/4	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding RECLAIM.
4/4	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding odor and dust complaints at Inland Empire Utilities Agency.
4/5	Newspaper	Provided information to the Palasadian Post concerning dry cleaner emissions.
4/5	Newspaper	Provided information concerning Breitburn Energy project in Los Angeles to the LA Weekly.
4/5	Newspaper	Provided information to the LA Business Journal concerning proposed Rule 1195.
4/5	Newspaper	Discussed Earth Day supplement with the Daily Breeze.
4/5	News Service	Provided information to the Associated Press regarding green power and air quality.
4/6	Newspaper	Provided information on proposed Rule 1195 to the San Bernardino Sun.
4/6	Newspaper	Provided information to Pepperidge student newspaper regarding school bus rule.
4/6	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times regarding Mira Loma study.
4/6	Newspaper	Provided information to Wall Street Journal regarding RECLAIM and power plants.
4/6-12	Newspaper	Provided information and interviews to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding RECLAIM and power plants.
4/10	Newspaper	Provided information to Austin American-Statesman regarding health effects of ozone.
4/10	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times/Inland Valley Section regarding Reliant Energy.
4/11-12	Newspaper	Provided information to Torrance Daily Breeze regarding school bus rule.
4/12	Newspaper	Provided information on RECLAIM to the Riverside Press-Enterprise.
4/12	Newspaper	Provided information on RECLAIM to the Los Angeles Times.
4/12	Newspaper	Provided information to Orange County Register regarding school bus rule.
4/12	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times regarding Glendale settlement.
4/13	Newspaper	Provided information and interviews to Riverside Press-Enterprise on RECLAIM.
4/16	Newspaper	Provided information regarding proposed Rule 1195 to the LA Weekly.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information regarding standby generators to the Contra Costa County Times.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information regarding proposed Rule 1195 to the LA Weekly.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information to the Los Angeles Business Journal regarding pollution at the ports.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information to Huntington Beach Wave regarding AES.
4/17 & 19	Wire Service	Provided information and interview to Associated Press regarding RECLAIM.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information to Business Press regarding AQMD comments on MTA transportation plan.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information to Riverside Press-Enterprise regarding AES, RECLAIM.
4/17	Newspaper	Provided information to San Bernardino County Sun regarding Asian dust storm and possible influence on Southland.
4/18	All Media	Represented AQMD at the California Fuel Cell Partnership Press Briefing at Exposition Park.
4/18	Newsletter	Provided information regarding RECLAIM and new source review to McGraw-Hill Energy Publications.
4/18	Newspaper	Provided information to the Los Angeles Times regarding proposed Rule 1195.
4/18	Television	Provided information and set up interview regarding the power crisis to NBC News.
4/18	Newspaper	Provided information to San Gabriel Valley Tribune regarding school bus rule.
4/18	Newsletter	Provided information to BNA regarding RECLAIM.
4/18	Newsletter	Provided information to Inside Cal/EPA regarding RECLAIM.
4/18-19	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times regarding Glendale power plant settlement.
4/18	TV	Provided information to National Geographic Today show regarding ship emissions.
4/19	Newspaper	Provided information regarding proposed Rule 1195 to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune.
4/19	Newspaper	Provided information regarding air monitoring to the Los Angeles Times.
4/19	Radio	Set up interview with KPCC Radio (FM 89.3) on the RECLAIM program.
4/19	News Service	Provided information on proposed Rule 1195 to City News Service.
4/19	Newspaper	Provided information to Orange County Register regarding school bus rule.
4/19	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times regarding school bus rule.
4/19	Newspaper	Provided information to Temecula Daily Californian regarding school bus rule.
4/19	TV	Provided information and interviews to NBC Nightly News on RECLAIM and power plants.
4/19	Newspaper	Provided information to Palm Springs Desert Sun regarding school bus rule.
4/19	All	Issued media advisory on school bus rule hearing.
4/20	News Service	Provided information on school bus rule to the Associated Press.
4/20	Radio	Provided interview on school bus rule to Inland Empire Radio News.
4/20	All	Issued news release on school bus rule.
4/20	All	Issued Board summary to media.
4/20	Internet	Provided information on school bus rule to lb.com.
4/20	TV	Provided information on school bus rule to KMIR-TV.
4/20	Newspaper	Provided information on school bus rule to Riverside Press-Enterprise.
4/20	Newspaper	Provided information on school bus rule to Palm Springs Desert Sun.
4/20	All	Provided information to reporters at Board meeting on school bus rule.
4/20	All	Provided information on the outcome of Rule 1195 to the following: The Daily Planet, KNX-Radio, KCAL-9, Channel 2, and Channel 7.
4/20	Newspaper	Provided information on hydrogen sulfide to LA Weekly reporter.
4/23	Radio	Provided interview on school bus rule to Metronetwork News.
4/23	Newsletter	Provided information to Air Daily concerning school bus rule.
4/23	Newspaper	Provided information to the Long Beach Press-Telegram regarding TOSCO fire.
4/23	Newspaper	Provided information to the Daily Breeze on the TOSCO fire.
4/23	Television	Provided information to KCBS-TV (Ch. 2) on the TOSCO fire.
4/23	Television	Provided on-air telephone interview regarding TOSCO Fire to KTTV (Ch. 11).
4/24	Radio	Provided interview to KCSN Radio concerning school bus rule.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information regarding school bus rule to the Wave Newspapers.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to South Bay Weekly on TOSCO/Wilmington compliance history.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times on AES Huntington Beach.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Associated Press on TOSCO refinery air monitoring.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times/Inland Valley edition on diesel backup generators.
4/24	Newsletter	Provided information on diesel backup generators to Energy User News.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angles Times/Inland Valley edition on OH Kruse Hearing Board schedule.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Los Angeles Times regarding Glendale Hearing Board abatement order.
4/24	Newspaper	Provided information to Palm Springs Desert Sun on Rule 1309.1 amendment.
4/24	Radio	Provided information on the TOSCO refinery air monitoring to KPCC reporter.
4/24	Internet	Provided information on the TOSCO refinery air monitoring to LBReport.com reporter.
4/25	Newspaper	Provided information to Energy User News concerning air quality issues in the power crisis.
4/25	Newsletter	Provided information to California Energy Markets concerning use of backup generators.
4/25	Newspaper	Provided information to the Sacramento Bee concerning backup generators.
4/25	Newspaper	Provided information to Long Beach Press-Telegram on TOSCO refinery air monitoring.

4/25	Newspaper	Provided information and interview to Los Angeles Times on power plant emissions.
4/25	Newspaper	Provided information on diesel emissions to Daily Breeze reporter.
4/26	Newspaper	Provided information to KMIR-TV regarding air pollution in Coachella Valley.
4/26	Magazine	Provided information concerning school bus rule to School Transportation News.
4/26	Newspaper	Provided information to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune on the RECLAIM program.
4/26	Radio	Provided information to KFWB-AM on TOSCO refinery air monitoring.
4/26	Newspaper	Provided funding to Whittier Daily News on school bus funding.
4/26	Newspaper	Provided information on the City of Glendale abatement order to Glendale Press News reporter.
4/26	Newspaper	Provided information on AES Huntington Beach to Huntington Wave reporter.

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
7,456	3,507	2,379	32	14,626

*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
4/1-19	Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside	Made presentations to, had meetings or phone contact with, school board members, superintendents, and school district staff regarding proposed Rule 1195.
4/1-30	Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside	Provided assistance regarding AB 2766 reports to the following cities: Covina, Culver City, Indian Wells, La Canada Flintridge, Long Beach, South El Monte, Torrance, Yorba Linda.
4/3	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to a department store in Fontana regarding Rule 2202 survey problems.
4/4	Los Angeles	Assisted the City of Montebello regarding Rule 2202.
4/4	Orange	Assisted a university in Irvine with random sampling methodology for Rule 2202 survey instrument.
4/4	Orange	Assisted a medical office in Irvine regarding a Rule 2202 survey window change.
4/4	Los Angeles	Attended MTA Technical Advisory Committee in Los Angeles.
4/4	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a college in Los Angeles regarding Rule 2202 compliance.
4/4	Orange	Provided assistance to a hotel in Newport Beach regarding Rule 2202 Emission Reduction Credits surrender.
4/4	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a hotel in Los Angeles regarding revisions to rideshare plan calculations.
4/4	Los Angeles	Provided Rule 2202 assistance to the Westchester/LAX Transportation Management Association regarding a member company.
4/4	Los Angeles	Responded to a question from IRS on the type of submittal for Rule 2202 compliance.
4/4	Orange	Provided assistance to a resort in Orange county regarding Rule 2202 compliance issues.
4/4	Orange	Provided assistance to a college in Santa Ana regarding Rule 2202 plan issues.
4/5	Districtwide	Participated in the Telework Steering Committee meeting.
4/5	Los Angeles	Conference call with a candy manufacturer in Glendale regarding Rule 2202 fees.
4/5	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a casino in Gardena regarding Rule 2202 issues.
4/5	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Energy & Environment Committee meeting in Los Angeles.
4/5	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Regional Council meeting in Los Angeles.
4/5	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Transportation & Communications Committee meeting in Los Angeles.
4/5	Orange	Spoke with a refuse hauling company regarding their AQIP contract.
4/5	Los Angeles	Spoke with an environmental contractor regarding their AQIP contract.
4/5	Los Angeles	Spoke with a cosmetic manufacturing company regarding the use of an alternative fuel van for lease.
4/5	Districtwide	Spoke with ARB regarding conformity issues and assumptions incorporated in the Draft 2001 RTP.
4/5	Districtwide	Spoke with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regarding conformity determination for Draft 2001 RTP.
4/5	Orange	Spoke with OCTA regarding Draft RTP conformity analysis, OCTA projects and potential conformity lapse.
4/5	Districtwide	Spoke with Southern California Council on Environment and Development regarding potential conformity issues related to assumptions used in the Draft RTP.
4/5	Los Angeles	Spoke with MTA regarding their position on SB 545 (HOV Lanes).
4/5	Los Angeles	Spoke with Caltrans regarding their position on SB 545 (HOV Lanes).
4/5	Districtwide	Spoke with Federal Highway Administration regarding their position on AB 321 (Transportation & Environmental Funding), SB 545 (HOV Lanes) and SB 547 (Transit Passes).
4/5	Districtwide	Spoke with SCAG staff regarding their position on AB 321 (Transportation & Environmental Funding), SB 545 (HOV Lanes) and SB 547 (Transit Passes).
4/6	Los Angeles	Contact with County of Los Angeles regarding Rule 2202 issues relating to LA Superior Court, Department of Social Services, and Health Services.
4/9	Orange	Provided assistance to a charity organization regarding the procedure for requesting a No Fault Rule 2202 inspection.
4/9	San Bernardino	Assisted the City of Colton regarding Rule 2202 compliance strategies.
4/10	Districtwide	Chaired an ACT (Association for Commuter Transportation) Membership Committee meeting in Culver City.
4/10	Districtwide	Spoke with SCAG regarding State Implementation Plan information.
4/10	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a glass company regarding the Rule 2202 AQIP program.
4/10	Riverside	Provided assistance to a community college in Riverside regarding the Rule 2202 credit program.
4/10	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a college in Claremont regarding a Rule 2202 survey question.
4/11	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a hospital in Chatsworth regarding Rule 2202 survey process.
4/11	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a department store in Chatsworth regarding the status of their Rule 2202 plan.
4/11	Los Angeles	Worked with the City of Los Angeles regarding 28 various sites under Rule 2202.
4/11	Districtwide	Spoke with ARB regarding RTP comments, approval, and SCAG Regional Council actions.
4/11	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a furniture company regarding Rule 2202 extension issues.
4/11	Orange	Assisted a hospital in Garden Grove regarding the usage of emission factors.
4/12	Orange	Provided assistance to a university in Fullerton regarding Rule 2202 survey methodology.
4/12	Orange	Provided assistance to a university in Irvine regarding Rule 2202 random sampling request.
4/12	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to a dairy products company in Ontario regarding a Rule 2202 AQIP issue.
4/12	Districtwide	Attended SCAG Regional Council meeting where 2001 RTP was approved.
4/12	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to an airline in Los Angeles regarding Rule 2202 survey parameters.
4/12	Districtwide	Spoke with ARB regarding revised RTP conformity analysis.
4/17	Riverside	Staff participated in an Earth Day event at State Comp Insurance in Riverside.
4/17	San Bernardino	Assisted a daily newspaper in Ontario regarding their Rule 2202 plan.
4/17	San Bernardino	Assisted a distributing company in Ontario regarding an extension request for their Rule 2202 plan.
417	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a university in Northridge regarding their Rule 2202 plan.
4/17	Los Angeles	Assisted a hotel in Los Angeles with Rule 2202 extension procedure.
4/17	Los Angeles	Assisted a grocery association in Commerce regarding an AQIP question.
4/19	Orange	Provided assistance to an environmental company in Irvine regarding Rule 2202 extension issues.
4/19	Los Angeles	Presented a Rule 2202 status report to the Westchester/LAX TMA membership meeting.
4/19	Statewide	Participated in a focus group hosted by Caltrans in San Francisco, including other agency representatives, regarding the agencies’ perception of Caltrans and their statewide role in transportation.
4/20	Los Angeles	Spoke to an auto wrecking company in Santa Fe Springs regarding Rule 1610 credit application.
4/20	Orange	Provided assistance to a hospital in Fountain Valley regarding Rule 2202 extension policy.
4/20	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to the City of Colton regarding their Rule 2202 compliance options.
4/20	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event at Northrop-Grumman in El Segundo.
4/20	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event sponsored by the Gateway Corporate Center/Diamond Bar Transportation Management Association in Diamond Bar.
4/20	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event at the Honda Corporation in Torrance.
4/21	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event at the City of West Covina.
4/24	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event at Raytheon in El Segundo.
4/24	Districtwide	Spoke with Federal Highway Administration regarding RTP article in the LA Times.
4/24	Districtwide	Participated in RTAC-TAC Rideshare Subcommittee conference call.
4/24	Districtwide	Participated in a conference call with a major department store chain regarding their Average Vehicle Ridership credit request.
4/24	San Bernardino	Attended annual rideshare event at Cal State San Bernardino.
4/24	Los Angeles	Met with a representative of a university in LaVerne regarding the Rule 2202 survey process.
4/25	Orange	Provided assistance to OCTA regarding their Rule 2202 program.
4/25	Los Angeles	Provided assistance to a spa manufacturer in Pomona regarding Rule 2202 compliance issues.
4/25	Los Angeles	Met with County of Los Angeles regarding Rule 2202 compliance issues.
4/25	Headquarters	Hosted a combined Rule 2202 Employers/Consultants Roundtable.
4/25	Districtwide	Attended the MTA High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Performance Evaluation meeting.
4/25	Districtwide	Spoke with SCAG regarding conformity analysis for 2001 RTP.
4/25	Los Angeles	Spoke with City of Los Angeles staff regarding 2001 RTP conformity analysis, RTP comment letters/responses.
4/25	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to the City of Redlands regarding the AQIP RFP process.
4/25	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event at the US Postal Service in Los Angeles.
4/25	Districtwide	Spoke with MTA staff regarding SB 545 HOV Evaluation legislation.
4/25	Districtwide	Spoke with Caltrans staff regarding the status of SB 545 (HOV Lanes).
4/25	Riverside	Provided assistance to the County of Riverside regarding their Rule 2202 plan evaluation.
4/26	Los Angeles	Attended the Torrance Transportation Network meeting. Provided a Rule 2202 program update.
4/26	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to the City of Chino regarding their Rule 2202 requirements.
4/26	Orange	Provided assistance to the City of Anaheim regarding their Rule 2202 submittal.
4/26	San Bernardino	Provided assistance to an engineering firm in Ontario regarding their Rule 2202 submittal.
4/26	Orange	Spoke with a representative of a university in Fullerton regarding Rule 2202 survey request.
4/26	Los Angeles	Met with a consultant regarding the USC Medical Center Rule 2202 compliance contract.
4/26	Districtwide	Participated in a conference call with a utilities company regarding AQIP/Emission Reduction Credit issues.
4/26	Districtwide	Participated in RTP conformity modeling conference call with SCAG and ARB.
4/26	Los Angeles	Staffed a booth at the annual rideshare event at Claremont Colleges.
4/26	Los Angeles	Participated in an Earth Day event at Pomona College in Pomona.

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