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Council advances application for $1.4 million emergency generator grant for community center
Summary
Council authorized the city manager to proceed with a grant application and an agreement with the park district to install emergency generators and related infrastructure at the community center; the project estimate is $1.4 million and staff said a local share would be determined if the grant is awarded.
Simi Valley staff told the City Council on Aug. 18 that the community center is identified as the city’s evacuation center and staff recommended applying for a grant to install emergency generators and supporting equipment, with an estimated project cost of $1,400,000.
Why it matters: council members said a reliable emergency‑power site is essential for evacuations and for county agencies that would use the site during disasters.
What was proposed: staff said the park district prepared a cost estimate of $1,400,000 for generators and associated work at the community center. The application would request federal or state grant funds and — if awarded — the city and the park district would finalize an agreement and determine any required local match during the budget process.
Council discussion: Council member Joseph Ayala asked staff about the likelihood of receiving the grant and alternative funding if the application is unsuccessful. City staff said the process is competitive but that staff believed the project had a viable chance, and that the city could consider funding the work in a future budget if necessary. Ayala also asked whether neighboring county agencies that would use the site during emergencies might contribute to costs; staff said they have not yet approached the county but could do so if council directs.
Action taken: Council approved the consent item authorizing the city manager to enter into an agreement with the park district and proceed with the grant process; councilmembers said they would return to council with the final grant acceptance and any local funding commitments if the award is received.
Financial detail and next steps: staff noted the $1.4 million was an engineer’s estimate prepared by the park district; an RFP would be required and final bids could be higher or lower. If awarded, staff said they would return to council to accept the grant and to confirm any local funding obligations.
