WEBVTT 1 00:00:14.110 --> 00:00:15.000 Tharon Wright: Okay 2 00:00:16.028 --> 00:00:22.709 Tharon Wright: alright, everyone welcome. We're just gonna give it 5 more minutes here, and then we'll go ahead and get started. 3 00:02:48.460 --> 00:02:49.130 Tharon Wright: I don't know. 4 00:04:00.850 --> 00:04:10.960 Tharon Wright: Good evening, everyone. This is the public information meeting for the Ls power grid, California power, Santa Clara Valley project 5 00:04:11.480 --> 00:04:18.180 Tharon Wright: Cpuc. Application number a 24, 0 4 0 1, 7. 6 00:04:18.779 --> 00:04:27.009 Tharon Wright: We will be discussing the draft environmental impact report or the draft Eir, as we will refer to it. Moving forward 7 00:04:27.310 --> 00:04:38.370 Tharon Wright: today is August 5, th 2025, at 6 pm. My name is Farin Wright, and I'm managing this project on behalf of the Cpuc. 8 00:04:38.650 --> 00:04:42.090 Tharon Wright: But 1st let's go over some housekeeping items. 9 00:04:53.620 --> 00:04:54.980 Tharon Wright: Hey? How's. 10 00:04:54.980 --> 00:05:00.340 Vincent Molina: The Emergency Board. The Main Emergency Board provided exit. 11 00:05:00.920 --> 00:05:11.490 Vincent Molina: You need to use their best rooms access, those sorts of weather, the library, and the alright. 12 00:05:12.030 --> 00:05:17.699 Vincent Molina: What's the that side that audio? And 13 00:05:18.700 --> 00:05:24.180 Vincent Molina: if you need to use the restrooms after 7 PM. Make sure you let us know, because we need to also 14 00:05:24.750 --> 00:05:36.150 Vincent Molina: posted after each division. So the there's also a signing over there. Make sure you 15 00:05:36.720 --> 00:05:43.390 Vincent Molina: sign in, and also some big instructions on How bye, Peter. 16 00:05:50.110 --> 00:05:54.550 Tharon Wright: Okay, I I think that's it for housekeeping. 17 00:05:54.920 --> 00:05:55.920 Tharon Wright: Okay. 18 00:05:56.110 --> 00:06:13.290 Tharon Wright: okay, this is a hybrid meeting offered in person and on zoom our meeting agenda for the this evening includes an overview of the project and the draft Eir, including the public involvement to date and key environment environmental issues. 19 00:06:13.760 --> 00:06:29.269 Tharon Wright: We'll then discuss project milestones, and the next steps, including an overview of the Cpuc's decision and review process and finish, with an opportunity to provide verbal public comments for both in-person and virtual attendees 20 00:06:29.830 --> 00:06:37.730 Tharon Wright: as a reminder. This meeting is not a Q. And a session, but rather intended to receive public comments on the draft. Eir 21 00:06:38.760 --> 00:06:40.230 Tharon Wright: next slide. 22 00:06:40.670 --> 00:06:50.719 Tharon Wright: Oh, I think that's it. Okay, we will start by introducing our Seca Review team. This includes the State Lead Agency under Seca, which is the Cpuc. 23 00:06:50.910 --> 00:06:55.909 Tharon Wright: I am the project manager for the Cpuc. Our consultant for 24 00:06:56.350 --> 00:07:07.079 Tharon Wright: environmental review is the is Environmental Science associates, or Esa with Felisa Nez as the project manager and Vince Molina as the Deputy Project manager 25 00:07:07.570 --> 00:07:17.899 Tharon Wright: for details on project, need and Cost Review, which are not part of the SQL. Process and are rather topics of the preceding. 26 00:07:18.090 --> 00:07:21.200 Tharon Wright: Please see the Cpuc website. 27 00:07:21.880 --> 00:07:26.110 Tharon Wright: A link to this page is included in the notice of availability. 28 00:07:26.880 --> 00:07:31.810 Tharon Wright: Felisa Nez will now discuss an overview of the project and its components. 29 00:07:33.650 --> 00:07:34.709 Valisa Nez: Thanks, Erin. 30 00:07:35.090 --> 00:07:43.379 Valisa Nez: Good evening, everyone. My name is Felice Nez, and I'm the project manager on behalf of Esa. Next we'll present an overview of the project. 31 00:07:43.580 --> 00:07:45.489 Valisa Nez: so, as depicted on the map. 32 00:07:45.600 --> 00:07:50.260 Valisa Nez: the project is proposed in the city of San Jose and unincorporated Santa Clara County. 33 00:07:50.410 --> 00:07:59.460 Valisa Nez: The applicant, zealous power has filed an application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity. On April 29, th 2024, 34 00:08:00.060 --> 00:08:01.930 Valisa Nez: due to a change in the project. 35 00:08:02.140 --> 00:08:06.440 Valisa Nez: The application was amended and refiled on March 7, th 2025, 36 00:08:06.910 --> 00:08:13.530 Valisa Nez: an eir for the project has been prepared under Ceqa. And we'll delve into the project details throughout the next few slides. 37 00:08:16.480 --> 00:08:31.639 Valisa Nez: So this slide introduces the project. Objectives. Objectives are primarily reliability driven. The project also aims to facilitate deliverability of energy from existing and proposed renewable generation projects to the greater San Francisco Bay area. 38 00:08:32.100 --> 00:08:42.479 Valisa Nez: The final objective is to provide a suitable foundation for future grid. Upgrades expected to be needed to serve the long-term forecasted electricity load in the San Jose area. 39 00:08:46.180 --> 00:08:52.820 Valisa Nez: We'll now discuss the project components, starting with those that would be constructed and operated by Ls power. 40 00:08:54.720 --> 00:09:07.670 Valisa Nez: The proposed grove to skyline 320 Kv. Direct current or DC transmission line would be located completely underground, predominantly within existing public right-of-ways. 41 00:09:08.130 --> 00:09:17.819 Valisa Nez: The alignment of this proposed DC. Transmission line would connect the proposed skyline, Hvdc. Terminal to the proposed grove, Hbdc. Terminal. 42 00:09:19.660 --> 00:09:26.030 Valisa Nez: the proposed Metcalf to Grove, 500 Kv. Alternating current or A/C transmission line 43 00:09:26.170 --> 00:09:31.830 Valisa Nez: would be located within both the San Jose City limits and unincorporated Santa Clara County. 44 00:09:32.600 --> 00:09:46.109 Valisa Nez: approximately one mile of the 1.2 mile Metcalf to Grove, 500 Kv. Transmission line would be located within Coyote Ranch Road and point 2 mile would traverse undeveloped areas on Santa Clara County land. 45 00:09:48.670 --> 00:10:04.600 Valisa Nez: The proposed skyline to San Jose B. 2 30 Kv. A/C transmission tie line would be located within the proposed skyline, Hbdc. Terminal and the expanded or modified. San Jose B. Substation. 46 00:10:08.000 --> 00:10:14.580 Valisa Nez: The 2 high voltage direct current or Hvdc. Terminals would also be constructed. 47 00:10:15.450 --> 00:10:22.130 Valisa Nez: The proposed skyline, Hbdc. Terminal site currently consists of a highly disturbed, vacant, undeveloped lot. 48 00:10:22.290 --> 00:10:29.390 Valisa Nez: 10.6 acres in size, that is located in the city of San Jose, at the corner of Santa Teresa and Ryland Streets. 49 00:10:29.600 --> 00:10:33.920 Valisa Nez: immediately south of the existing Pg. And E. San Jose beach substation. 50 00:10:36.720 --> 00:10:43.260 Valisa Nez: The proposed Grove Hbdc. Terminal site is located on a 13.6 Acre property. 51 00:10:43.430 --> 00:10:47.559 Valisa Nez: and it's in both the city of San Jose and unincorporated Santa Clara County. 52 00:10:47.820 --> 00:10:54.689 Valisa Nez: Point, 2 mile west of us. Highway 101 and point 6 miles southeast of the existing Pg. And E. Metcalf substation. 53 00:10:59.240 --> 00:11:11.900 Valisa Nez: 2 Pg. And E. Substations, including the existing Pg. And E. San Jose B. Substation, and the metcal substation would also undergo expansions and or modifications to support interconnection. 54 00:11:12.740 --> 00:11:17.190 Valisa Nez: Following the next slide will provide a visual of the locations of the substations. 55 00:11:18.030 --> 00:11:30.810 Valisa Nez: The existing Pg. And E. San Jose. B. Substation is a 115 Kv. Transmission substation that is connected to 4, 115 Kv. Transmission lines and 17 distribution lines. 56 00:11:31.240 --> 00:11:35.890 Valisa Nez: The existing substation facility occupies an area of 2.1 acres. 57 00:11:36.400 --> 00:11:39.960 Valisa Nez: Like the proposed skyline, Hbdc. Terminal. 58 00:11:40.160 --> 00:11:46.099 Valisa Nez: the Pg. And E. San Jose Bee. Substation is in a highly disturbed urban area in the city of San Jose. 59 00:11:53.470 --> 00:11:58.609 Valisa Nez: The existing Pg. And E. And Metcalf substation would also undergo modifications. 60 00:11:59.070 --> 00:12:15.379 Valisa Nez: The existing Pg. And E. Metcalf substation is a 500 230 and 115 Kv. Transmission substation that is connected to 2 500 kv. 8, 230 Kv. And 11115 Kv. Transmission lines. 61 00:12:15.530 --> 00:12:19.859 Valisa Nez: The operating substation facility occupies an area of 47 acres. 62 00:12:20.010 --> 00:12:27.690 Valisa Nez: An additional 11 acres on the substation site parcel are used for material storage, and as an operation and maintenance support facility. 63 00:12:33.240 --> 00:12:40.289 Valisa Nez: These figures illustrate the locations of the existing substations, as well as the differentiation of the Pg. And E. Facilities 64 00:12:40.590 --> 00:12:45.070 Valisa Nez: highlighted in green and Ellis powers proposed components that are in blue. 65 00:12:51.860 --> 00:12:59.190 Valisa Nez: These images depict the existing environmental setting near proposed and existing project components. 66 00:12:59.520 --> 00:13:07.280 Valisa Nez: The environmental setting is varied, but primarily includes utility. Infrastructure, industrial areas and existing roadways. 67 00:13:07.500 --> 00:13:12.610 Valisa Nez: The project is also in proximity to the Coyote Creek and the Coyote Creek Trail system. 68 00:13:18.280 --> 00:13:22.120 Valisa Nez: We'll now move into the public involvement portion of the presentation. 69 00:13:22.750 --> 00:13:25.039 Valisa Nez: Starting with an overview of the process. 70 00:13:25.380 --> 00:13:42.300 Valisa Nez: So first, st the scoping meeting was held on September 18, th 2024, with comments received from Caltrans, the Cpc. Native American Heritage Commission, Regional Water Quality Control Board, Santa Clara Valley, Open Space Authority and members of the public. 71 00:13:44.150 --> 00:13:58.189 Valisa Nez: A. B. 52 requires public agencies to consult with California, native American tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of a proposed project that is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act. 72 00:13:58.760 --> 00:14:02.819 Valisa Nez: Notification letters were sent to 19 representatives from 9 tribes 73 00:14:03.140 --> 00:14:10.890 Valisa Nez: 80 52 consultation occurred with 4 tribes, Costa, Noan, Rumsen, Carmel, tribe. 74 00:14:11.430 --> 00:14:15.259 Valisa Nez: Indian Canyon, Mutson, Band of Kosinoan 75 00:14:16.160 --> 00:14:22.699 Valisa Nez: Muwekma, ohlone tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area and Teamian Nation. 76 00:14:23.970 --> 00:14:34.289 Valisa Nez: In addition, coordination with public agencies, including the city of San Jose, occurred in regard to existing facilities and potential impacts on transportation and traffic. 77 00:14:35.450 --> 00:14:41.400 Valisa Nez: I'll now hand it off to Vince Molina to further discuss potential project impacts and mitigation measures. 78 00:14:42.790 --> 00:14:46.568 Vincent Molina: Thanks, Lisa, actually to stand up. I feel like I'm hiding behind. 79 00:14:48.530 --> 00:14:50.470 Vincent Molina: All right next slide, please. 80 00:14:52.320 --> 00:15:03.759 Vincent Molina: So the table shown in this slide represents the proposed projects, potential environmental impacts over 4 different categories. No impact less than significant impact with 81 00:15:04.650 --> 00:15:08.340 Vincent Molina: with Cpuc proposed measures and significant and unavoidable 82 00:15:08.970 --> 00:15:15.290 Vincent Molina: shown on the top row. There the proposed project is expected to have no impacts associated with public services. 83 00:15:15.980 --> 00:15:21.039 Vincent Molina: Then, on the second row, the proposed project is anticipated to have less than significant impacts 84 00:15:21.140 --> 00:15:22.830 Vincent Molina: over 9 resource areas. 85 00:15:23.320 --> 00:15:29.049 Vincent Molina: For some of those resource areas Ellis power has proposed applicant proposed measures 86 00:15:29.250 --> 00:15:35.120 Vincent Molina: which are intended to reduce or avoid potential environmental impacts. As a result of the proposed project 87 00:15:35.700 --> 00:15:44.229 Vincent Molina: applicant proposed measures are considered part of the proposed project, and Ls power would be responsible for implementing the applicant proposed measures 88 00:15:44.340 --> 00:15:47.630 Vincent Molina: during construction and operation of the project. 89 00:15:48.510 --> 00:15:57.960 Vincent Molina: Similarly, Pg. And E. Has identified best management practices and field protocols that would be implemented for Pg. And E. Scope of work for the proposed project. 90 00:15:58.780 --> 00:16:03.190 Vincent Molina: Pg. And E. Would be responsible for implementing its best management practices 91 00:16:03.370 --> 00:16:08.320 Vincent Molina: and field protocols during construction and operations within Pg. And E. Property. 92 00:16:10.030 --> 00:16:21.070 Vincent Molina: On the 3rd row the proposed project is anticipated to have less than significant impacts with implementation of Cpuc proposed mitigation measures for 8 resource areas 93 00:16:21.720 --> 00:16:28.149 Vincent Molina: under the California Environmental Quality Act, an environmental impact report must consider mitigation measures 94 00:16:28.280 --> 00:16:35.249 Vincent Molina: which are feasible measures that could minimize significant adverse impacts. In cases when a proposed project 95 00:16:35.460 --> 00:16:40.060 Vincent Molina: is anticipated to result in a potentially significant impact on the environment. 96 00:16:40.800 --> 00:16:48.629 Vincent Molina: and among other requirements, mitigation measures should be fully enforceable and be consistent with all applicable constitutional requirements. 97 00:16:49.750 --> 00:17:01.220 Vincent Molina: The Cpuc would oversee implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, as well as Alice Powers applicant proposed measures, and Pg. And E's best management practices and field protocols. 98 00:17:02.220 --> 00:17:04.260 Vincent Molina: and lastly, on the bottom row. There 99 00:17:04.560 --> 00:17:12.670 Vincent Molina: the proposed project is anticipated to have significant and unavoidable impacts associated with cultural resources and tribal cultural resources. 100 00:17:13.260 --> 00:17:22.850 Vincent Molina: And under the California Environmental Quality Act a significant and unavoidable impact refers to an environmental impact that is considered substantial and adverse. 101 00:17:23.180 --> 00:17:28.310 Vincent Molina: and one that cannot be reduced to a less than significant level through mitigation measures. 102 00:17:28.930 --> 00:17:30.460 Vincent Molina: And it should be noted 103 00:17:30.610 --> 00:17:37.920 Vincent Molina: that while there could be significant and unavoidable impacts associated with cultural resources and tribal cultural resources. 104 00:17:38.060 --> 00:17:40.539 Vincent Molina: the proposed project could still be approved. 105 00:17:40.730 --> 00:17:48.689 Vincent Molina: Pending the Cpuc's adoption of a statement of overriding considerations a document that justifies approval of the proposed project. 106 00:17:49.840 --> 00:17:54.289 Vincent Molina: So the next 2 slides will further discuss some of the proposed projects. Mitigation measures. 107 00:17:59.210 --> 00:18:08.430 Vincent Molina: As mentioned, the proposed project is anticipated to have significant and unavoidable impacts related to cultural resources and tribal cultural resources. 108 00:18:08.910 --> 00:18:12.560 Vincent Molina: The following Cpuc proposed mitigation measures would be implemented 109 00:18:13.260 --> 00:18:16.349 Vincent Molina: for Ellis powers portion of work for the proposed project. 110 00:18:16.460 --> 00:18:26.169 Vincent Molina: Alice Power would be required to have a Secretary of the Interior qualified archaeologist prepare and implement a Cultural Resources management plan 111 00:18:26.290 --> 00:18:40.020 Vincent Molina: in collaboration with consulting native American tribes and the Cpuc. That includes a cultural resources monitoring plan and a treatment program for significant cultural resources that may be impacted by the proposed project. 112 00:18:40.580 --> 00:18:43.810 Vincent Molina: and for Pg. And E's portion of work for the proposed project. 113 00:18:44.140 --> 00:18:49.719 Vincent Molina: Pg. And E. Would be required to have a Secretary of the of the Interior qualified archaeologist 114 00:18:49.880 --> 00:18:56.079 Vincent Molina: prepare and implement a cultural resources, treatment plan or Crtp 115 00:18:56.290 --> 00:18:59.300 Vincent Molina: in collaboration with consulting native American tribes. 116 00:18:59.700 --> 00:19:13.060 Vincent Molina: The Crtp would identify treatment methods for all cultural materials identified during Pg. And E's construction, including tribal engagement procedures and safe storage of materials. If necessary. 117 00:19:13.540 --> 00:19:19.579 Vincent Molina: The Crtp would also include a cultural resources monitoring plan next slide, please. 118 00:19:22.370 --> 00:19:41.089 Vincent Molina: And among other resource areas I've discussed before the proposed project is anticipated to have less than significant impacts with the implementation of Cpuc mitigation measures related to biological resources, transportation and agriculture and forestry resources. 119 00:19:42.250 --> 00:19:47.549 Vincent Molina: For example, the Cpuc proposed the following mitigation, measures related to biological resources. 120 00:19:47.680 --> 00:19:55.040 Vincent Molina: including habitat restoration, monitoring protection of special status, wildlife, compensatory mitigation measure 121 00:19:55.310 --> 00:19:57.560 Vincent Molina: and compliance with local tree ordinances 122 00:19:58.180 --> 00:20:06.229 Vincent Molina: for transportation. A coordinated traffic control plan is proposed to reduce potential impacts on local and regional transportation systems. 123 00:20:07.200 --> 00:20:15.599 Vincent Molina: and last, compensatory mitigation is proposed to reduce potential impacts on agriculture and forestry resources. 124 00:20:15.830 --> 00:20:18.700 Vincent Molina: notably the orchard within the proposed project's boundary. 125 00:20:20.140 --> 00:20:21.169 Vincent Molina: Next slide, please. 126 00:20:23.460 --> 00:20:26.500 Vincent Molina: This slide here details the project. Milestones to date. 127 00:20:26.820 --> 00:20:35.299 Vincent Molina: beginning with filing of the certificate of public convenience and necessity, or Cpcn application. On April 29, th 2024, 128 00:20:35.790 --> 00:20:46.040 Vincent Molina: notably the public draft of the Eir was released on July 10, th 2025, which marked the beginning of a 45 day, public and agency review period 129 00:20:46.150 --> 00:20:48.930 Vincent Molina: through August 2520, 25. 130 00:20:49.910 --> 00:20:55.490 Vincent Molina: The next slides will discuss the proposed projects, next steps and how to submit comments on the draft. Eir. 131 00:20:58.920 --> 00:21:02.970 Vincent Molina: Now there are a few number of next steps that we'd like to bring to your attention 132 00:21:03.190 --> 00:21:07.339 Vincent Molina: the draft. Eir. Public Review period ends on August 25, 133 00:21:07.480 --> 00:21:09.519 Vincent Molina: 2025, at 5 Pm. 134 00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:17.559 Vincent Molina: And while the date is still undecided, the final eir is anticipated to be released in the 4th quarter of this year. 135 00:21:18.160 --> 00:21:24.539 Vincent Molina: The final Eir would consider and respond to all timely comments submitted during the public review period. 136 00:21:25.600 --> 00:21:27.809 Vincent Molina: and in the 1st quarter of 2026, 137 00:21:28.130 --> 00:21:32.329 Vincent Molina: the Cpuc. Will issue a proposed decision for 30 days of comment. 138 00:21:32.830 --> 00:21:34.969 Vincent Molina: and upon consideration of the comments 139 00:21:35.180 --> 00:21:43.670 Vincent Molina: the Commissioners will vote to adopt a decision that either approves or denies the proposed project, and finally. 140 00:21:43.780 --> 00:21:50.309 Vincent Molina: the proposed project would be in service, beginning June of 2028 next slide, please. 141 00:21:52.010 --> 00:21:56.979 Vincent Molina: This slide here provides instructions on submitting public comments on the Jock Dir. 142 00:21:57.540 --> 00:22:03.069 Vincent Molina: Comments can be mailed to Fair and Wright, the Cpuc's project manager at the address shown here. 143 00:22:03.540 --> 00:22:11.260 Vincent Molina: They may also be emailed to power. scb@esassoc.com. 144 00:22:11.880 --> 00:22:18.729 Vincent Molina: And again the public, the deadline to submit public comments is 5 pm. On August 2520, 25. 145 00:22:20.170 --> 00:22:24.309 Vincent Molina: My colleague, Marcel Guzman, will now provide instructions for public comments. 146 00:22:25.860 --> 00:22:27.920 Marisol Guzman: Alright, thank you, Vince. 147 00:22:28.320 --> 00:22:31.409 Marisol Guzman: We'll now begin the public comment portion of the meeting. 148 00:22:33.140 --> 00:22:44.090 Marisol Guzman: Our discussion. Guidelines are as follows, please be concise, stay on topic and respect the opinions of others. For your awareness, comments will be recorded. 149 00:22:44.400 --> 00:22:52.899 Marisol Guzman: In addition, written comments are encouraged. And just as a reminder, this is not a Q&A session, but rather a space to provide public comments. 150 00:22:56.080 --> 00:23:10.690 Marisol Guzman: Alright instructions are provided on the screen. If participating via zoom, please click the raise hand, icon to be called on alternatively. You may Dial Star 9 to request to raise your hand. If you are commenting via telephone 151 00:23:11.190 --> 00:23:15.559 Marisol Guzman: we will take in-person comments, 1st followed by virtual comments. 152 00:23:15.760 --> 00:23:20.859 Marisol Guzman: Each individual will get 1, 2 min time slot to provide comments. 153 00:23:20.990 --> 00:23:24.629 Marisol Guzman: Additional comments can be provided via written response. 154 00:23:24.760 --> 00:23:30.870 Marisol Guzman: The front row has been reserved for in-person commenters. We will then transition to virtual comments. 155 00:23:32.110 --> 00:23:34.919 Marisol Guzman: Alright, I think we're ready to get started. 156 00:23:42.920 --> 00:23:43.740 Marisol Guzman: You. 157 00:23:43.880 --> 00:23:44.640 Vincent Molina: Or participants. 158 00:23:45.600 --> 00:23:57.739 Vincent Molina: Well, thank you, everyone, we have reserved the 1st section of the public comment period for the in person attendees. So if anyone is willing to provide a comment, you're invited. 159 00:23:58.470 --> 00:23:59.280 Vincent Molina: Oh. 160 00:24:00.650 --> 00:24:07.320 Vincent Molina: the microphone is not on. No, no, it's because I yeah, it's on for for zoom. Yeah, can you hear me? Now? 161 00:24:07.930 --> 00:24:18.479 Vincent Molina: Okay, so at the 1st section of the comment period, we invite in person attendees to join the 1st row. So we can provide a microphone. 162 00:24:18.640 --> 00:24:25.419 Vincent Molina: And and also, you know, be seen by the virtual attendees. 163 00:24:26.910 --> 00:24:29.070 Vincent Molina: Does anyone want to provide a comment? 164 00:24:29.620 --> 00:24:31.520 Vincent Molina: Yeah, feel free to join. 165 00:24:37.120 --> 00:24:53.770 Vincent Molina: Yeah, thanks further in 2 min, and as soon as they start shall I sit here and speak? 166 00:24:56.210 --> 00:25:14.209 Vincent Molina: Good to go? All right. Good evening. My name is Lena Ian, and I'm speaking today on behalf of the Santa Clara Valley open Space authority as a public agency. Our mission is to conserve the natural environment, support agriculture, and connect people to nature for the benefit of current and future generations. Our comments this evening will be followed by a more detailed comment later this month. 167 00:25:14.250 --> 00:25:25.400 Vincent Molina: but overall the open Space authority is supportive of the overall goals of the power Santa Clara Valley project to strengthen the reliability of the electrical grid, and to provide increased access to affordable renewable energy 168 00:25:25.400 --> 00:25:45.699 Vincent Molina: throughout the project. The Open Space Authority has proactively engaged with both Ls power and Pg. And E to support least conflict siting that best serves public interest and investments. We strongly support the environmentally superior alternative combination, one which co-locates the Southern Hvdc. Or grove terminal at the existing Metcalf, Pg. And E. Substation 169 00:25:45.840 --> 00:26:00.239 Vincent Molina: co-location be less costly for ratepayers, more energy efficient and involve fewer environmental impacts compared to the proposed site which is undeveloped agricultural land. That is a part of an important wildlife corridor located within the Coyote Valley conservation program area 170 00:26:00.320 --> 00:26:10.050 Vincent Molina: to date over 120 million dollars in public and private investments have been made to protect over 1,500 acres of this important landscape, which lie directly across from the proposed site. 171 00:26:10.050 --> 00:26:34.810 Vincent Molina: In addition to significant, unavoidable impacts to agricultural resources, we believe the Eir inadequately evaluated and therefore underestimated the impacts of this location on wildlife connectivity the analysis concludes that impacts could be reduced to a less than significant level. But it does not consider planned and in progress wildlife connectivity improvements, including those with the Valley transportation, authority, and peninsula, Open Space Trust as well as planned improvements from high speed rail. 172 00:26:35.050 --> 00:26:47.530 Vincent Molina: So in summary, again, we support alternative Combination one. It's our understanding that Ellis, Power and Pg. And E agree that co-location is both feasible. It is feasible, and we are hoping that an agreement for co-location will be reached soon. Thank you again for the opportunity to comment. 173 00:26:50.310 --> 00:26:51.730 Vincent Molina: Thank you for your comment. 174 00:26:53.890 --> 00:26:56.600 Vincent Molina: They have any other in-person attendees. Okay. 175 00:27:05.630 --> 00:27:11.609 Vincent Molina: yeah, people really can't hear? Yeah, because the fan is loud. Yeah. 176 00:27:12.702 --> 00:27:20.449 Vincent Molina: good evening, and thank you for the opportunity to comment. My name is Alice Kaufman. I'm the policy and advocacy director for green foothills. 177 00:27:20.650 --> 00:27:45.260 Vincent Molina: and we support alternative combination. One alternative in the Eir which locates the Grove terminal at the Pg. And E. Metcalf substation, and which was identified in the Eir as the environmentally superior alternative. We believe that the Cpuc should choose alternative Combination one as the preferred path forward for the power. Santa Clara Valley project. 178 00:27:45.560 --> 00:27:55.229 Vincent Molina: locating the Grove terminal at the Metcalf substation instead of on an orchard in Coyote Valley, would significantly reduce the environmental impacts of the project. 179 00:27:55.520 --> 00:28:21.859 Vincent Molina: Coyote Valley forms a critical landscape linkage for wildlife to migrate between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo range. Numerous scientific studies support conserving all of Coyote Valley as protected open space to ensure the environmental and economic vitality of the greater San Jose area. Santa Clara County voters agree and have consistently and overwhelmingly demonstrated their support for conservation of Coyote Valley. 180 00:28:22.220 --> 00:28:45.250 Vincent Molina: The Coyote Valley orchard that would be the site for the terminal under the project as proposed, is right next to Coyote Creek, which is the backbone of the Wildlife Corridor, through Coyote Valley, animals that depend on the Creek corridor to be able to migrate from the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Diablo range would be subject to noise, nighttime, lighting, human activity, and other disturbances from the construction and operation of the energy facility. 181 00:28:45.500 --> 00:28:51.319 Vincent Molina: Furthermore, Monterey Road, where the orchard site is located, is already a wildlife, roadkill, hotspot. 182 00:28:51.500 --> 00:29:14.269 Vincent Molina: the highest incidence of bobcats, badgers, coyote, deer, and other animals being killed by cars is right around this location, proving that animals are desperately trying to get across Monterey Road to the safety of Coyote Creek on the other side. Putting a 6 acre energy facility in the path of these animals will only make this problem worse. Please choose A/c. 1 as the preferred path forward for the power. Santa Clara Valley Project. Thank you. 183 00:29:16.030 --> 00:29:17.529 Vincent Molina: Thank you for your comment. 184 00:29:18.150 --> 00:29:22.530 Vincent Molina: Do we have any other commenter joining us in person tonight? 185 00:29:23.630 --> 00:29:24.800 Vincent Molina: Anyone else? 186 00:29:29.050 --> 00:29:29.950 Vincent Molina: Thank you. 187 00:29:40.490 --> 00:29:44.069 Vincent Molina: Good evening. My name is Shani Kleinhaus. I'm the environment. 188 00:29:45.860 --> 00:29:59.520 Vincent Molina: I'm the environmental advocate for the Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society. I don't want to repeat what the representative from Green Foothills said, but we also support the alternative. At Metcalf 189 00:29:59.560 --> 00:30:22.730 Vincent Molina: there is a certain level of opportunity loss that Ceqa may not capture, but it's very, very important, and if we are going to have wildlife movement through Coyote Valley, it's important not to put the infrastructure on the valley floor to the largest extent possible, and to use existing infrastructure such as the Metcalf station. Thank you. 190 00:30:24.340 --> 00:30:25.640 Vincent Molina: Thank you very much. 191 00:30:29.160 --> 00:30:31.009 Vincent Molina: We'll get there. 192 00:30:35.850 --> 00:30:36.570 Vincent Molina: Okay. 193 00:30:42.330 --> 00:30:46.399 Vincent Molina: So now we can transition to virtual comments. If any. 194 00:30:48.820 --> 00:30:54.470 Rosalind Searle: As a reminder. If you'd like to submit virtual comments, you can press, react, and raise hand on the zoom. 195 00:30:57.660 --> 00:30:59.910 Rosalind Searle: Okay, we'll start with Kayla and Yeo. 196 00:31:04.540 --> 00:31:05.540 Kayla Ngo: Alright. 197 00:31:07.650 --> 00:31:16.959 Kayla Ngo: hello! My name is Kayla. No, and I'm a rising senior at Pioneer High School and a member of the Silicon Valley. Youth, climate action, San Jose team. 198 00:31:17.270 --> 00:31:43.389 Kayla Ngo: I'm speaking, to urge the Cpuc to select alternative combination one or A/c. 1 placed in the grove terminal at the Pg. And E. Metcalf substation. The Cpuc's own draft environmental impact report confirms that it's the environmentally superior option. And if placed in the orchard near Coyote Valley, the site would replace 6 acres of trees with concrete, tear up nearly a mile of the Coyote Creek trail and require tunneling under the creek, which is right through a critical wildlife corridor 199 00:31:43.580 --> 00:32:00.479 Kayla Ngo: building next to Coyote Creek, severely disrupts the wildlife's migration patterns with noise and light, and increases their chances of being hit and killed by cars adding over a mile of new infrastructure, would also bring more financial burden onto the public. Please choose A/c. 1. It's a clear, responsible path forward. Thank you. 200 00:32:03.240 --> 00:32:04.559 Rosalind Searle: Thank you for your comment. 201 00:32:05.240 --> 00:32:07.660 Rosalind Searle: Up next we'll have Serena Meyer. 202 00:32:13.638 --> 00:32:18.442 Serena Myjer: Hi! My name is Serena Meiker and 203 00:32:20.150 --> 00:32:32.969 Serena Myjer: I would like to say, please choose A/c 1 as the preferred path forward for the power of the Santa Clara Valley project locating the grove terminal at Metcalf. Substation instead of at an orchard in Coyote Valley. 204 00:32:32.970 --> 00:32:57.589 Serena Myjer: would significantly reduce the environmental impact of the project anecdotally. After working in Coyote Valley as a restoration technician, I spoke with people like farmers, hikers, cyclists in the area, and everyone overwhelmingly values the beauty of this place because it is undeveloped. Farmland and mountains also. Santa Clara county voters have agreed to support conservation of 205 00:32:57.590 --> 00:32:58.720 Serena Myjer: Coyote Valley 206 00:32:59.170 --> 00:33:19.510 Serena Myjer: over and over again. Monterey Road, where this orchard is located, is already a wildlife roadkill hotspot. Putting the energy facility there will only make this problem worse if you remove the orchard. There's no habitat restoration or mitigation that can replace the existence of open space needed for wildlife movement. 207 00:33:21.571 --> 00:33:26.439 Serena Myjer: I'd also like to express my concern for the 208 00:33:27.020 --> 00:33:41.330 Serena Myjer: removal of cultural resources in the area that cannot be replaced. And finally, as a taxpayer, I don't want to pay for an additional 209 00:33:41.470 --> 00:33:46.960 Serena Myjer: energy facility when it could be located at the Metcalf substation. 210 00:33:47.090 --> 00:33:48.540 Serena Myjer: Thank you. 211 00:33:51.170 --> 00:33:52.069 Rosalind Searle: Thank you. 212 00:33:52.530 --> 00:33:54.950 Rosalind Searle: Up. Next we'll have Gina White. 213 00:34:02.840 --> 00:34:15.249 Gina White: Yes, Hi, thank you. I'd just like to say that I concur with a lot of the previous commenters that the best choice is A/c. 1, and the reasons are to 214 00:34:15.250 --> 00:34:34.420 Gina White: check Wildlife Corridor. It doesn't disrupt Coyote Valley, the Coyote Valley orchard, and the Coyote Creek trails, and all of the obviously all of the noise and lighting would disrupt the wildlife. So I hope you will choose alternative A/c. 1. Thank you. 215 00:34:36.469 --> 00:34:37.299 Rosalind Searle: Thank you. 216 00:34:38.309 --> 00:34:40.599 Rosalind Searle: Do we have any other questions? 217 00:34:42.329 --> 00:34:46.059 Rosalind Searle: Okay, up next will be Calvin Shridhara. 218 00:34:52.020 --> 00:35:00.941 Calvin Sridhara: Hi. My name is Calvin Trizara, and I'm also a member of Silicon Valley's youth, climate action, San Jose team to add on to what everyone else said. 219 00:35:01.870 --> 00:35:07.250 Calvin Sridhara: yes. I also agree that we should select alternative combination one. 220 00:35:07.550 --> 00:35:31.210 Calvin Sridhara: And on top of what everyone else said, adding over a mile of new infrastructure would make the project much more expensive, and these costs would fall on the public as well as building. Next to Coyote Creek, would bring noise and light into a fragile migration path, and the site is near a high conflict. Wildlife crossing, which would put more animals at risk of being hit by cars. Please choose. A/c. 1 is the clear and responsible path forward. Thank you. 221 00:35:33.210 --> 00:35:34.040 Rosalind Searle: Thank you. 222 00:35:36.090 --> 00:35:38.580 Rosalind Searle: Have any other virtual commenters. 223 00:35:43.130 --> 00:35:45.460 Rosalind Searle: Okay, Elizabeth Poland. Next. 224 00:35:55.250 --> 00:35:59.370 Rosalind Searle: it doesn't look like any hands are up left in the zoom call. 225 00:36:06.750 --> 00:36:09.040 Rosalind Searle: Okay, Elizabeth. Poland is next. 226 00:36:09.190 --> 00:36:12.070 Elizabeth Polland: Hey? Thanks. Sorry I couldn't find the unmute button. 227 00:36:12.270 --> 00:36:14.590 Elizabeth Polland: Yeah. Can you hear me? 228 00:36:16.550 --> 00:36:17.230 Rosalind Searle: Yes. 229 00:36:17.480 --> 00:36:34.570 Elizabeth Polland: Okay, great. So I I agree with the earlier comments. I'm a South San Jose resident and a hiking enthusiast and a nature enthusiast, and I think that the A/c. 1 alternative, the 230 00:36:35.000 --> 00:36:44.859 Elizabeth Polland: A combination one, is the way to go versus using our valuable resources with the coyote valley floor, the Coyote Valley orchard. 231 00:36:45.110 --> 00:36:53.760 Elizabeth Polland: and please please take that into consideration. All of these requests here, thanks so much. 232 00:36:55.610 --> 00:36:56.450 Rosalind Searle: Thank you. 233 00:36:58.710 --> 00:37:01.430 Rosalind Searle: Do we have any other virtual commenters. 234 00:37:09.370 --> 00:37:09.910 Marisol Guzman: Alright. 235 00:37:11.010 --> 00:37:21.160 Marisol Guzman: It looks like we do not have any other virtual commenters. Thank you, everyone for providing your comments. Darren. Wright will now close off the public information meeting. 236 00:37:22.900 --> 00:37:36.580 Tharon Wright: Okay, that concludes our public information meeting for the power. Santa Clara Valley project. Again, we encourage you to submit written comments to the mailing address or the email address provided here. Thank you for joining us this evening.