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Proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project in the City of San Juan Capistrano: A Public Safety Concern - Resident Involvement Encouraged
Compass Energy Storage, LLC is proposing to construct, own, and operate an approximately 250-megawatt BESS facility in the City of San Juan Capistrano. The approximately 13-acre project site is located within the northern portion of the City of San Juan Capistrano, adjacent to Camino Capistrano and Interstate-5.
The proposed project, which is just 1,500 feet from Laguna Niguel homes, poses many safety concerns, including increased potential for local wildfires. Additionally, Compass Energy Storage, LLC is foregoing the local review process with the City of San Juan Capistrano and is instead submitting an application directly to the California Energy Commission, resulting in a potential loss of local control and oversight.
The City of Laguna Niguel opposes this project and is in communication with the City of San Juan Capistrano to proactively address the proposed BESS facility.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the project, voice their concerns to the California Energy Commission, and get involved in the review process. To assist residents, the City has created a comprehensive BESS Project webpage that includes a California Energy Commission comment form, a drafted template letter to help express your concerns effectively, FAQ’s, project history, and additional resources. To learn more about the proposed Battery Energy Storage System project and how to best participate, please visit cityoflagunaniguel.org/bess.
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La Paz Road: Southbound Traffic is Set to be Restored Ahead of Schedule
The construction project to safely restore southbound traffic flow on La Paz Road, between Rancho Niguel Rd and Kings Rd, is expected to be completed ahead of the projected schedule of early-Fall! This project, known as the 'Long-Term Phase II Plan,' will once again accommodate two-way traffic, without a detour, from Aliso Creek Road to Crown Valley Parkway. The plan will be in place for several years as the City continues to fund, design, and construct a fully permanent repair solution. The City will continue to share La Paz Road updates on its social media channels, website, and mobile app. For further details on La Paz Road's current status, please visit cityoflagunaniguel.org/lapaz.
Chet Holifield Federal Building Update
On June 5, 2024, the General Services Administration (GSA) began the auction for the Chet Holifield Federal Building property with a minimum bid of $70 million and a $200,000 registration deposit. As of today, the GSA has received two bids, and the pending auction has a “soft close” date of July 31st. This means the GSA may extend the auction if necessary to accommodate ongoing bidding. Due to GSA confidentiality protocols, the City may not learn the identity of the winning bidder until the real estate transaction is completed, which could take up to six months after the auction closes.
Once the new property owner is announced, City staff will initiate redevelopment discussions. This will likely involve negotiating a Development Agreement with the new owner, covering key terms and setting the stage for a Specific Plan process. The Specific Plan will include comprehensive community engagement, funded by the new property owner. To learn more, visit cityoflagunaniguel.org/chfb.
Fiscal Year 2024-25 Adopted Operating and Capital Improvement Budget: Paving a Pathway to Excellence
On June 4, 2024, the City Council unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating and Capital Improvement Budget, affirming its commitment to enhancing life in Laguna Niguel. This budget reflects the City's long-standing conservative financial practices established nearly 35 years ago.
The adopted budget, totaling $65.3 million, focuses on maintaining high-quality services, improving infrastructure, and planning for the future. $10.1 million is allocated for capital improvement projects, including crucial upgrades to many City streets and roadways. The budget also ensures continued delivery of essential services and programs to the community.
The City continues to adopt a balanced budget without incurring any debt, reflecting advanced financial planning, analysis, and execution. For more details on the City's Adopted Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program, visit cityoflagunaniguel.org/budget. A ‘Budget in Brief’ is also available on the City website for a high-level, easy to understand overview.
Sea Country Senior & Community Center: Extended Hours of Operation
Starting October 1st, the Sea Country Senior & Community Center will extend its weekday hours, remaining open until 5:00 pm. This adjustment reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to enhancing services and meeting the needs of all residents. Senior Transportation services will also be available until 5:00 pm to ensure continued support. The City is dedicated to continuously evaluating and improving how to better serve the community, and these extended hours are part of that effort to improve access and convenience for all.
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Help Make a Difference: Volunteer at the Sea Country Festival
This summer, residents have the opportunity to get involved and give back to the community by volunteering at the Sea Country Festival, which will be held from August 23rd to August 25th. As the City’s biggest volunteer opportunity of the season, the Sea Country Festival is not only a fun and festive event but also a chance to make a meaningful impact. Your participation will help ensure that the 3-day event runs smoothly and that everyone has a memorable experience. To view all the volunteer assignments and available shift times, please visit bit.ly/SCFVolunteers2024.