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Board approves emergency resolution to speed quick-connect, generator purchases ahead of PSPS season
Summary
To avoid losing instructional days to power shutoffs, the board approved an emergency resolution to fast-track subcontractor selection for quick-connect installations and to purchase generators (about $600,000 from Measure M) while alternative power systems are completed.
The board on Aug. 14 adopted an emergency resolution authorizing expedited contracting and subcontractor selection to install quick-connects and deploy generators to reduce the risk of lost instructional days from Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
Carrie Upton, Chief Operations Officer, told the board the district had explored renting generators but that repeated PSPS seasons make purchasing more cost-effective. "This would be about $600,000," she said, describing a plan to buy generators using Measure M funds and to work with Schneider Electric for the quick-connect installations. The district is pursuing a joint-powers approach to purchase generators and has requested interim loans of equipment from SoCal Edison to bridge the gap while ordered units arrive.
Because selecting a subconsultant through Schneider's chain would have delayed completion until March (too late for the coming season), staff requested emergency authority to select a subcontractor and begin work within two weeks, with monthly ratification votes until the work is complete. The board approved the resolution by roll call.
Procurement and funding: staff said purchasing (~$600,000) will be covered by Measure M (capital funds), with details to be reported at future meetings. Administration explained legal provisions that allow kupA/KUPA districts to use informal bidding under the California Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act when paired with an emergency resolution and monthly ratification.
Next steps: Subcontractor work to install quick-connects would begin immediately upon vendor selection to meet a late-September readiness target; generator deliveries expected November'December with interim rentals or SoCal Edison loans if necessary.
