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Cotati council backs state ‘polluters pay’ climate super fund bills
Summary
Cotati adopted a resolution supporting AB 1243 / SB 684 to create a state polluters-pay climate super fund; council discussed potential litigation risk and local eligibility for funding before voting unanimously to support the bills.
The Cotati City Council voted unanimously on Oct. 14 to adopt a resolution supporting state legislation (AB 1243 and SB 684) that would direct CalEPA to study climate costs and create a polluters-pay climate super fund for mitigation, adaptation and disaster response.
Staff noted the draft legislation would seek retrospective cost recovery from large historical fossil-fuel producers for emissions dating back to 1990, and that a minimum of 40% of funds in the current draft would be earmarked for disadvantaged communities. Staff also cautioned that the measure likely faces litigation risk because of its retroactive and extra-territorial features.
Cotati staff said the city is not identified as a disadvantaged community in the draft and would compete for the remaining funds if the law is adopted and appropriations are made. Council discussion was supportive of the concept while acknowledging uncertainties about timing, legal outcomes and funding distribution.
A motion to adopt the resolution passed 5–0.
