Auburn approves participation in statewide PACE financing program for property upgrades

The Auburn City Council on June 24 authorized participation in the California Statewide Communities Development Authority Open PACE program, which enables property‑secured assessments to finance energy efficiency, renewable energy and wind mitigation improvements for residential and commercial property owners.

City staff introduced the program and Fortify Financial (a PACE provider) outlined how PACE works: eligible improvements (solar, HVAC, windows, roofs, batteries) are financed as non‑ad valorem assessments repaid on the property tax bill; qualifying criteria include current property tax payments, no active bankruptcy and minimum equity requirements. Fortify emphasized consumer protections: confirmation‑of‑terms phone calls, third‑party inspection of work, a contractors’ code of conduct, and pay‑on‑completion procedures so contractors are paid after verified installation.

Presenter Chris Peterson said PACE provides a financing option for owners who either lack access to conventional financing or prefer a property‑secured repayment attached to the tax roll; he noted there is no cost or liability to the city and that providers are subject to state oversight and audits. Council asked about battery storage and commercial provisions; the presenter confirmed batteries and small commercial deals are eligible under program rules.

Council moved to approve the CSCDA Open PACE program participation and the resolution passed on a roll call. Staff will coordinate any necessary local implementation steps and provide informational resources for residents and contractors.