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Commissioners push for a demonstration and funding road map in proposed EV‑charging study
Summary
The commission debated whether an EV-charging UPWP study should produce technical electrical manuals or implementation-focused deliverables; staff proposed inventories, standards, partnerships with GMP and Drive Electric, and a potential demonstration project to show costs and process.
Commissioners discussed the proposed UPWP project to study EV charging for existing multiunit buildings, questioning whether the scope should include technical electrical how-to manuals or focus on implementation, funding pathways, and demonstration projects. Donna (S5) stressed the public desire for concrete, actionable steps: "What it costs. What it costs," she said, urging scope elements that show real costs and feasibility for local owners.
Staff (S3 and S8) proposed deliverables the study could reasonably provide: an inventory of existing buildings, a standard for retrofit approaches, policy guidance, and a connection to potential funding mechanisms; staff cautioned that highly technical electrical design (panel capacity, wiring details) is contractor-level work and not efficient for a municipal study. "That kind of technical guidance... is beyond the efficiency level of the municipality," one staff member said, while noting a demonstration project could be expedited if a willing property partner is identified.
Commissioners recommended at least one demonstration project and clearer cost estimates and urged staff to document precedent projects and funding models so landlords and HOAs can evaluate retrofit options. Staff noted the city is hiring a climate action manager who would likely lead implementation if the UPWP-funded study is approved.
