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Board backs local permitting, fee relief for geothermal projects; RCRC highlights broadband, forest health work
Summary
Supervisors voted to support two state bills aimed at speeding geothermal permitting and easing fees on geothermal waste, while hearing a Rural County Representatives of California briefing on broadband awards, workforce homebuying assistance and forest-health plans.
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved letters of support for AB 1016 and AB 1031, two bills that county officials say would speed geothermal development and reduce regulatory costs for geothermal byproducts.
AB 1016 would expand local permitting authority for geothermal power plants under certain conditions, and AB 1031 would clarify exemptions and fee treatment for geothermal waste, including filter cake. Deputy CEO Barry Bean summarized the county’s rationale at the meeting: “This would still maintain environmental protections and follow the full CEQA review, including robust environmental analysis, public engagement, as well as tribal engagement,” Bean said. The board voted on each measure (motion by Supervisor Ryan Elliott Kelly, second by Chairman John Hawk) and the motions carried.
Why it mat…
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