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Benicia panel reviews downtown EV‑charging options as city, MCE ready business outreach flyer
Summary
Commissioners heard an EV charging assessment from the city and Eco Northwest and an update on a joint MCE–City outreach flyer for businesses; staff said the flyer will ship March 31 and businesses should receive it by April 11, and the consultant recommended Level 2 chargers in moderate‑demand parking near 1st Street.
Commission members on the Community Sustainability Commission heard updates on two related efforts: a joint MCE–City outreach flyer for Benicia businesses and a staff‑commissioned assessment of potential downtown EV‑charging sites.
Commissioner Ray said the outreach project has been underway about a year and that the flyer — reviewed by city staff and commission members — “will be shipped at the end of this month, March 31,” with businesses expected to receive it by April 11. He said the flyer includes a QR code allowing businesses to book coaching and that there is no charge to access the coaching program.
Colette Glitzko, the city’s economic development manager, introduced Eco Northwest consultant Chris Saceda, who presented data on visitation and parking patterns, charger types and likely impacts on retail. Saceda summarized retail‑impact research and said, “there is actually a little bump, up from, like, 1 to 3%,” in nearby sales where chargers are installed. He recommended prioritizing Level 2 chargers in moderate‑demand (orange/yellow) areas near 1st Street to avoid displacing heavily used parking while giving drivers time to shop and dine.
Commissioners asked how the program would serve residents without garages and whether BAQMD settlement funds would be used. Staff said current incentives are limited to MCE rebates and that BAQMD money (settlement funds) has not yet been allocated to the city; one commissioner urged a broader public discussion before planning around assumed settlement funds. Saceda noted Level 2 chargers typically serve visits that last several hours, while DC fast chargers require more infrastructure but charge in under an hour.
Next steps include targeted outreach to property owners and businesses, tracking QR‑code engagement from the flyer, further feasibility checks on electrical infrastructure with Public Works, and exploring grant or rebate options to support installations.
