Staff proposes $6.125M disaster‑recovery letter of agreement to install generators at three multi‑service centers

As part of the discussion on disaster recovery closeout and mitigation, housing staff said the department would enter a letter of agreement with the General Services Department (GSD) to use $6,125,000 in 2021 disaster‑recovery funds to install generators and renewable energy systems at three multi‑service centers. "The department will be entering into a letter of agreement with the general services department to provide 6,125,000 in disaster recovery 2021 funds for the installation of generators and renewable energy systems at 3 multi service centers," Deputy Director Sellers said.

Staff described the scope as including natural gas generators, battery backup systems and automatic transfer switches; GSD will determine the appropriate technical approach and bring construction contracts to council. Staff explained site selection was guided by HUD low‑to‑moderate income and floodplain requirements and collaboration with health and emergency management partners to prioritize centers used as cooling/heating and distribution points.

Council members asked about equitable distribution, how many centers currently lack backup power and timeline estimates; staff said design is expected to take about a year and that cost estimates per site will follow the design RFP, with preliminary ballpark costs ranging from roughly $750,000 to $1.25M for large locations. Staff said if funds remain after design cost estimates, they could recommend adding additional sites. The item was presented as a proposal and staff said any design and construction agreements will be brought to council for approval.