Public Utilities 2026/05/27CITY OF ANAHEIM
PUBLIC UTILITIES BOARD
MINUTES
May 27, 2026
The agenda having been posted on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the Regular Meeting of the Public Utilities Board
(Board) was called to order by Chairperson J. Seymour at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in the
Gordon Hoyt Conference Center, 2nd floor, Anaheim West Tower, 201 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, California.
Board Members Present: Chairperson J. Seymour, Vice -Chairperson A. Pham, M. Lee, A. McMenamin,
I. Castillo
Board Members Absent: T. Ibrahim, S. Kewalramani
City Staff Present: D. Lee, B. Beelner, T. Chen, P. Starr, C. Parker, M. Pan, M. Avelino -Walker,
V. Tran, M. Seifen, B. Mendoza, J. Sanks, P. Bogdanoff, E. Krause, A. Markis,
A. Nguyen, C. Pereyra, Y. Saldivar, K. Meland, M. Nguyen, N. Medeiros, J. Hester,
O. Nungaray (Public Works)
Guests Present: Council Member R. Balius, S. Mercadante, M. Herbert
Better Way Anaheim: N. Zug, T. Suffi, R. Morales, J. Pinney, K. Solano,
D. Flaming, P. Valez, A. Ambrocios
AGENDA ITEM
1. PUBLIC COMMENTS.
There being no electronic public comments submitted by the deadline,
Chairperson J. Seymour opened the public comments portion of the
meeting.
S. Mercadante voiced her concerns regarding water quality and submitted
comments in writing. Chairperson J. Seymour asked D. Lee, Public
Utilities General Manager, if he would like to respond to the comments.
D. Lee stated that a presentation on water quality was previously
provided to the City Council as requested by the Board.
M. Herbert voiced his concerns regarding water quality and submitted
comments in writing.
2. RECOGNITION: BETTER WAY ANAHEIM FOR ASSISTING
WITH HYDRANT PAINTING AND CUSTOMER FLYER
DISTRIBUTIONS.
M. Seifen, Communications Supervisor, provided an overview of Better
Way Anaheim's partnership with APU, and highlighted collaborative
projects to improve the community, including painting fire hydrants,
painting bollards, which protect electric and water equipment, and
ACTION TAKEN
Following the public
comments, Chairperson J.
Seymour closed the public
comments portion of the
meeting.
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distributing flyers for community events. N. Zug, Better Way Anaheim's
Executive Director, provided an overview of the organization's mission
to meet the needs of the community. The Board thanked Better Way
Anaheim for the support to improve the community.
3. APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF
APRIL 22, 2026.
4. PRESENTATION: GROUNDWATER TREATMENT UPDATE.
J. Sanks, Environmental and Safety Services Manager, briefed the
Board on the status of APU's Groundwater Treatment Program,
including an overview of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
and their occurrence in consumer products, food, and water. J. Sanks
gave an overview of the PFAS regulations, emphasizing that the state
has established advisory notification levels and response levels intended
to prompt water systems to begin taking steps to remediate PFAS, but
enforceable maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) will not be in effect
until 2029 and that APU has remained compliant with these regulations.
J. Sanks provided a timeline of PFAS compliance and regulations,
noting that APU sent required notices to the City Council and the Board
in 2019, 2023, and 2025, and noted that APU had completed building
the Phase A and Phase B Groundwater Treatment Program sites, and
will complete construction of the final phase before the MCLs take
effect in 2029. J. Sanks provided data on the levels of different types of
PFAS reported in 2025, noting that the PFAS levels are within the state
regulations, and that groundwater treatment systems are effectively
removing PFAS.
P. Bogdanoff, Water Engineering Manager, presented an update on
APU's Groundwater Treatment Program sites. P. Bogdanoff provided a
brief overview of the Program that focuses on safety, treatment and cost
recovery. P. Bogdanoff then provided a brief description of some of the
challenges and improvements at each of the nine Phase A and B sites.
P. Bogdanoff also presented information on the Phase C Groundwater
Treatment Program sites that are currently in the design phase and are
scheduled to be constructed prior to the United States Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) PFAS regulation compliance date.
P. Bogdanoff presented a summary of EPA's visit to APU's Linda
Vista Complex in June of 2024.
The Board stated that there was substantial work that went into the
development of treatment systems. The Board inquired if the City
would retain ownership of well properties that would remain out of
M. Lee moved the approval
of the Minutes of the
Regular Meeting of April
22, 2026. A. McMenamin
seconded the motion.
MOTION CARRIED: 5-0.
ABSTAINED: 0.
ABSENT: 2. [T. Ibrahim,
S. Kewalramani]
2026 - 39
service because groundwater treatment sites could not be feasibly
constructed. P. Bogdanoff confirmed that the City would continue to
own these properties.
5. PRESENTATION: POWER RESOURCE PORTFOLIO
OVERVIEW.
B. Beelner, Assistant General Manager — Finance and Energy
Resources, presented an overview of Anaheim's evolving power
resource portfolio within the framework of California's increasingly
ambitious renewable and carbon -free mandates. The presentation
summarized the State's progression from early renewable portfolio
standards (RPS) requirements in the 2000's to the current path of
reaching 60% renewables by 2030 and 100% carbon -free energy by
2045. B. Beelner described how APU has aligned with these goals
through its Integrated Resource Plans, a diversified supply mix, and a
long-term reduction in coal and nuclear assets. Additionally, it
highlighted the growth of renewable resources from less than 1% in
2004 to an expected 60% in 2030, with current renewable contracts
totaling 227 Megawatt (MW) and now representing the largest share of
APU's retail portfolio.
B. Beelner also reviewed APU's forward -looking resource strategy,
emphasizing continued progress supported by battery storage,
solar -plus -storage, and newly approved long-term contracts. The
presentation discussed how statewide challenges, including higher
project costs, supply -chain pressures, and the California Independent
System Operator (CAISO) interconnection delays are affecting
renewable development timelines. Despite these factors, APU continues
to prioritize affordability, reflected in a 46% residential savings margin
compared to Southern California Edison (SCE) in 2026 and supported
by recent customer survey results indicating strong confidence in
APU's renewable transition. B. Beelner concluded by reaffirming that
APU's planning remains focused on sustainability, affordability, and
reliability while advancing toward the 2045 carbon -free objective
established by the state.
The Board asked whether APU would continue receiving power from
the Intermountain Power Project over the next two years. B. Beelner
confirmed that deliveries will continue only through 2027, after which
APU will fully exit the contract.
The Board also inquired about APU's confidence in meeting the 60%
RPS target by 2030. B. Beelner noted that while APU continues to
make progress, challenges such as grid interconnection constraints and
increasing market competition may affect timelines, and additional
clarity will be provided through the upcoming Integrated Resource Plan
(IRP), expected early next year.
The Board asked about compliance implications if statewide targets are
not met. B. Beelner explained that off -ramps exist through City Council
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action if reasonable efforts to meet targets have been exhausted, though
this is not the preferred path. E. Krause, Integrated Resources Manager,
noted that financial penalties could apply if no corrective actions are
taken and D. Lee, stated that APU continues to balance the need for
compliance with maintaining affordability.
The Board inquired whether APU could pursue nuclear resources in
California. B. Beelner noted that a state moratorium on new nuclear
development remains in place until a federal spent -fuel storage solution
is established. The Board also asked about data -center impacts, and B.
Beelner explained that many facilities are turning to behind -the -meter
generation, particularly in other states with lower costs and greater
resource availability.
The Board asked about potential bill impacts as APU works toward
state compliance targets. B. Beelner stated that upcoming resource
changes may help moderate costs, though capital and inflationary
pressures will likely continue to influence long-term expenses. The
Board also asked about broader sustainability efforts throughout
Anaheim. D. Lee noted that APU continues advancing energy and
water efficiency programs that coincide with updated building
standards.
The Board requested clarification on the Green Power Program.
B. Beelner explained that participating customers receive renewable
energy credits associated with their usage. In response to a Board
question regarding grid oversight as new projects are added,
B. Beelner noted that CAISO manages grid operations and
interconnection for these resources.
6. FISCAL YEAR 2026/27 PROPOSED BUDGET.
B. Beelner provided an overview of the proposed Fiscal Year (FY)
2026/27 budget. B. Beelner highlighted that the total budget increased
from $776.1M to $782.6M from the April presentation, reflecting the
recently approved International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
(IBEW) labor agreement and the addition of three new craft positions.
B. Beelner noted that capital investments include water main
replacements and electric distribution improvements, including an
accelerated transformer replacement program. The budget includes
funding for three new positions: Line Mechanic, Electric Crew
Supervisor, and Substation Test Technician Supervisor.
The Board inquired about current vacancies and recruitment efforts.
D. Lee responded that approximately 380 of 405 authorized positions
are currently filled, with ongoing efforts to hire employees who are
dedicated to serving the community.
M. Lee moved the
recommendation to approve
the adoption of the FY
2026/27 Proposed Budget
and I. Castillo seconded the
motion.
MOTION CARRIED: 5-0.
ABSTAINED: 0.
ABSENT: 2. [T. Ibrahim, S.
Kewalramani]
2026 - 41
7. UPDATE ON ELECTRIC SYSTEM ITEMS.
V. Tran, Acting Assistant General Manager — Electric Services,
provided an update on the Beach Boulevard undergrounding project and
reported that electrical cutovers affecting residents and businesses have
been completed, and overhead electrical facility removals are now
underway. V. Tran noted that SCE has also completed its electrical
cutovers and is currently obtaining City permits to remove its overhead
facilities. V. Tran further reported that final paving activities are
currently being coordinated with the Public Works Department and are
expected to begin later this summer.
V. Tran provided an update on electrical infrastructure improvements
supporting the OCVIBE development. V. Tran reported that several
facilities have recently been energized and noted that electrical
equipment has been installed and commissioned to energize the
development's Chilling Plant, a critical facility that will provide
centralized cooling for most of the OCVIBE campus. V. Tran reported
that staff previously received authorization from Caltrans to complete
underground construction work beneath the 57 freeway along Katella
Avenue. The work will extend additional electrical circuits to improve
system reliability and operational flexibility throughout the
development. Construction activities to complete the electrical line
extension are anticipated to be completed by July.
V. Tran discussed the ongoing streetlighting improvement efforts
throughout the City and reported that requests for additional lighting
continue to be received from residents, particularly in areas with public
safety concerns. On Beach Boulevard, V. Tran noted that temporary
lighting mounted on utility wood poles was installed at a former motel
property acquired by the City's Housing and Community Development
Department following resident concerns regarding safety and vandalism
within the parcel.
V. Tran also provided an update on the Mavis Street lighting
improvement project located south of La Palma Avenue and west of
East Street where APU hosted a community pop-up event. V. Tran
noted that construction is underway to install new colony -style
streetlights following prior neighborhood concerns regarding
inadequate lighting and criminal activity in the area.
V. Tran reported that APU hosted an informational community pop-up
event in the Minuet Neighborhood regarding planned streetlight
improvements. The project's construction is currently in progress and
will install new traditionaire-style streetlights consistent with the area,
as well as the removal of aging metal streetlight poles.
V. Tran noted that APU continues to coordinate with Community
Services, Code Enforcement, and the Anaheim Police Department to
prioritize lighting improvements and address public safety concerns
throughout the community.
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8. UPDATE ON WATER SYSTEM ITEMS.
C. Parker briefed the Board on the Water Supply Dashboard and shared
that rainfall is average. The Orange County Groundwater Basin is in
good condition with average rainfall in the basin this year. Orange
County Water District (OCWD) is evaluating whether they can expand
the basin, meaning potentially drawing the water levels down more
during droughts. The State Water Project is in good condition with
average rainfall and below average snowfall. The current allocation is
45%, which is good news. The Colorado River is in strained condition,
with below average rainfall and significant under average snowfall. The
Southern States recently agreed to conserve more water to assist with
the condition of the river.
C. Parker discussed the recent Water Awareness Month event at Center
Greens Park; 85 students attended from Stoddard Elementary School
and approximately 100 from the public. The event provided
demonstrations on pipe tapping, water filtration, and the water cycle.
C. Parker shared that OCWD hosted their annual Children's Water
Education Festival at Oak Canyon Park in Silverado. The event was
well attended, with over six Anaheim schools participating. Council
Member N. Meeks and Anaheim staff participated in education
activities as well.
APU staff recently attended the Annual California -Nevada American
Water Works Association Conference. Staff met with vendors to learn
about the technological advances in the water industry. In addition, staff
participated in the pipe tapping competition.
C. Parker was invited to speak last month at the Kiwanis Club of
Greater Anaheim to discuss water services and programs offered.
Board Member M. Lee was in attendance.
Chairperson J. Seymour requested C. Parker to meet with
S. Mercadante and M. Herbert regarding water quality concerns
submitted and report back to the Board.
9. UPDATE ON FINANCE AND ENERGY RESOURCES ITEMS.
B. Beelner discussed the monthly Power Supply Dashboard and
highlighted the lower -than -typical prices of both power and natural gas
for the month of April. These lower -than -expected prices allowed APU
to save money by purchasing more power than expected from the
market as opposed to generating its own power.
B. Beelner also informed the Board that TransCanada Turbines (TCT)
expects to ship the repaired Canyon Power Plant Unit 1 Turbine back to
Anaheim with an expected arrival in the middle of June.
C. Parker will offer to
meet with S. Mercadante
and M. Herbert and will
report back to the Board
at a future meeting.
2026 - 43
The Board thanked B. Beelner for the information and good
management on the Unit 1 turbine. B. Beelner will provide an update at
a future meeting.
10. UPDATE ON ADMINISTRATION AND RISK SERVICES ITEMS.
M. Pan, Acting Assistant General Manager — Administration and Risk
Services, shared that APU tracked 119 bills in May, with 20 bills failing
to meet legislative deadlines. M. Pan also noted key dates on the
legislative calendar.
M. Pan highlighted two bills that would aim to address affordability.
Assembly Bill 2516 would establish a state -led program to address
supply chain issues by coordinating statewide central procurement of
critical grid components. APU has worked with industry groups to
protect critical infrastructure information and maintain its bargaining
position.
The Board inquired if the Assembly Bill 2516 program was voluntary
for APU. M. Pan confirmed the program would be voluntary.
M. Pan also highlighted Senate Bill 905 which would create the Policy -
Oriented and Wildfire Electric Reimbursement (POWER) Program to
reduce ratepayer costs by reimbursing electrical utilities with non -
ratepayer funds. The POWER Program language had been removed in a
recent amendment; however, the concept had been introduced two years
in a row and would likely be reintroduced.
M. Pan briefed the Board on two employee injuries that occurred during
the reporting period. Safety services arranged refresher ergonomic
training for staff. M. Pan noted that a contractor's employee sustained
injuries and was under California Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (CalOSHA) review. APU suspended the contractor's
ability to be a prequalified contractor on future bids until the review is
complete.
M. Pan shared that Safety Services worked with the Anaheim Police
Department and Community Care Response Team to provide homeless
awareness training to field staff.
M. Pan noted the joint support letter from Orange County Water
District (OCWD) in support of Senate Bill 1153 for water disaster
preparedness. This bill is in line with current requirements and water
utility practices.
M. Pan provided the Internal Compliance Report which recorded one
violation in the reporting quarter, due to a non -operational sprinkler
system at the site of the decommissioned Kraemer Power Plant. The
violation had no associated fines; Anaheim Fire & Rescue determined
the sprinkler system was not required, and had received APU's removal
plan for review.
2026 - 44
The Board inquired if APU's safety statistics included contractors in
addition to APU employees. M. Pan clarified that APU statistics would
not include contractors.
11. ITEMS BY SECRETARY.
D. Lee shared agenda items planned for next month:
• Proposed Five -Year Underground Conversion Plan;
• Physical Security Plan Update of Electrical Facilities;
• Master Construction Agreement for Electric Utility Construction,
Maintenance, Repair, and Immediate Response Projects;
• Wholesale Energy Risk Management Quantitative Modeling
Services Agreement; and
• Anaheim Police Department has been invited to receive
recognition for their efforts on wire theft mitigation.
D. Lee shared the following updates:
APU hosted a Skill Trade Symposium for high school;
APU employees took part in a community project and painted
approximately 120 fire hydrants; and
APU participated in a neighborhood clean up event hosted by
the Community Services Department, to offer bill assistance and
resource information.
D. Lee thanked APU staff for the assistance provided in response to the
local emergency in the City of Garden Grove that impacted west Anaheim.
City Council selected a consulting firm and the Human Resources
Department explained that a timeframe of October is the goal for the
City Manager recruitment to be filled.
12. ITEMS BY BOARD MEMBERS.
I. Castillo commented that he was one of the residents in the evacuation
zone and further stated that he participated in the High School Scholarship
interviews and how nice it was to meet with the students and hear their
stories; he also extended his appreciation to APU staff.
M. Lee stated that the presentations were helpful and added that he
appreciated being notified during an outage. He extended his appreciation
for the presentation provided at the Kiwanis meeting.
A. Pham commented about APU's support provided to residents during
Memorial Day weekend.
J. Seymour reiterated his request to meet with residents about their
water quality comments.
2026 - 45
13. ADJOURN: (NEXT REGULAR MEETING ON JUNE 24,2026, AT
5:00 P.M.)
Respi
0
nill-le
Public Utilities General Manager
Vice -Chairperson A. Pham
moved to adjourn the
Regular Meeting in the
Gordon Hoyt Conference
Center at 7:01 p.m. to the
Board's Regular Meeting
date of June 24, 2026, at
5:00 p.m. A. McMenamin
seconded the motion.
MOTION CARRIED: 5-0.
ABSTAINED: 0.
ABSENT: 2. [T. Ibrahim,
S. Kewalramani]
*Indicates voting item(s) that will be forwarded to City Council for action upon recommendation by the Board.
*Indicates voting item(s) that do not require further approval actions.
2026-46