The Docket · Government Meeting · DKT-2026-001191

On the agenda: Placer County meeting — Data Center (Aug 13)

Past ⚠ Agenda Watch Placer County, California · Thursday, August 13, 2026 — 4 weeks ago

About this record

The published agenda for this August 13 meeting contains: "Data Center", "hyperscale", "data center", "DATA CENTER". The meeting has passed; the record and its outcome live here permanently.

WhenThursday, August 13, 2026
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.

WherePlacer County, California

Money$100 was at stake

On the record“Data Center”“hyperscale”“data center”“DATA CENTER”

The agenda, word for word

Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived August 21, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗

109 pages · scroll to read

Page 1 of 109

AGENDA
PCAPCD Board of Directors Meeting
Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 2:30 PM
Placer County Board of Supervisors' Chambers
175 Fulweiler Avenue, Auburn, California
_________________________________________________________________________________
Call to Order
Flag Salute
Roll Call / Determination of a Quorum
Approval of Minutes: June 11, 2026
Public Comment / Meeting’s Public Participation Procedures
Any person who wishes to address the Placer County Air Pollution Control District (District) Board of
Directors (Board) regarding any item not on the agenda, but within the jurisdiction of this Board, may do so
during the public comment period. However, the Board is not permitted to take action or engage in discussion
on topics which are not on the agenda. All items on the agenda will be open for public comments before final
action is taken. The Board requests public commenters state your name and association for the record before
you speak. There is a 3-minute time limit per speaker. The Chair has the discretion to limit the total discussion
time on any item.

Consent: Items 1 – 4
These items are expected to be routine and non-controversial. The Board will act upon these items at
one time without discussion. Any Board member, Staff member, or interested citizen may request
that an item be removed from the consent calendar for discussion.
1. Permitting Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers Policy
Consider for Approval the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data
Centers Policy, requiring the use of Tier 4 Final certified diesel-fired emergency generator
engines at new Data Centers.
2. Hearing Board Member Term Expiration and Reappointment
Consideration to Reappoint current District Hearing Board member, Mr. D. Steven Parks,
extending his term of office an additional three years, to August 10, 2029.
3. Proposed Hearing Board Administration Policy
Consider Adoption of the proposed Placer Air Pollution Control District Policy #2N, Hearing
Board Administration Policy.
4. Conflict of Interest Code Amendment
Consider Adoption of Resolution #26-08 (Attachment #1), thereby approving the amendment of
the Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s Conflict of Interest Code.

Page 2 of 109

Agenda: PCAPCD Board Meeting
August 13, 2026
Page 2 of 2
Public Hearing/Action: Item 5
5. Proposed Final Budget Fiscal Year 2026-27 Public Hearing
Conduct a Public Hearing for the purpose of reviewing the District’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27
Final Budget. Consider Adoption of Resolution #26-09, thereby approving the District’s Final
Budget for FY 2026-27.
Closed Session: Item 6
6. Air Pollution Control Officer’s Performance Evaluation
Pursuant to Government Code §54957(b)(1), the District Board will hold a closed session to
discuss the annual performance evaluation of the Air Pollution Control Officer (APCO),
Erik White, for the period October 10, 2025, through the present. A report on any action taken
will be presented prior to adjournment.
Informational / No Action: Item 7
7. Permitting of New Stationary Diesel-Fired Internal Combustion Engines
No action is required. This is an informational item on District procedures for permitting new
stationary diesel-fired internal combustion engines.
Air Pollution Control Officer Report
A. Incentive Program Update
Meeting Adjournment
Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting: October 8, 2026
Placer County Air Pollution Control District is committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities are
provided the resources to participate fully in its public meetings. If you require disability-related
modifications or accommodations, please contact the Clerk of the Board. All requests must be in writing
and must be received by the Clerk five business days prior to the scheduled meeting for which you are
requesting accommodation. Requests received after such time will be accommodated only if time permits.
Materials related to this meeting which are provided to Board members are available for public inspection
at the meeting and during business hours at the Air Pollution Control District office at 110 Maple Street,
Auburn, CA 95603. District Office Telephone: (530) 745-2330.

Page 3 of 109

Consent: Items 1 – 4
These items are expected to be routine and non-controversial. The Board will act upon these items at
one time without discussion. Any Board member, Staff member, or interested citizen may request
that an item be removed from the consent calendar for discussion.
1. Permitting Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers Policy
Consider for Approval the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data
Centers Policy, requiring the use of Tier 4 Final certified diesel-fired emergency generator
engines at new Data Centers.
2. Hearing Board Member Term Expiration and Reappointment
Consideration to Reappoint current District Hearing Board member, Mr. D. Steven Parks,
extending his term of office an additional three years, to August 10, 2029.
3. Proposed Hearing Board Administration Policy
Consider Adoption of the proposed Placer Air Pollution Control District Policy #2N, Hearing
Board Administration Policy.
4. Conflict of Interest Code Amendment
Consider Adoption of Resolution #26-08, thereby approving the amendment of the Placer
County Air Pollution Control District’s Conflict of Interest Code.

Page 4 of 109

Page 5 of 109

MINUTES

PCAPCD Board of Directors Meeting
Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 2:30 PM
Placer County Board of Supervisors' Chambers
175 Fulweiler Avenue, Auburn, California
_________________________________________________________________________________
Present:
Absent:

Richard Pearl, Kim Douglass, Greg Janda, Anthony Demattei, David Ring,
Karen Alvord and Suzanne Jones
Shanti Landon, Rachel Radell-Harris and Caroline McCully

Approval of Minutes: April 9, 2026
Motion: Suzanne Jones / Greg Janda
Action: Approved 4/9/26 Minutes / Unanimous Vote 7:0
Ayes:
Douglass/Alvord/Demattei/Pearl/Ring/Janda/Jones
Public Comment / Meeting’s Public Participation Procedures: No public comment.
Consent: Items 1 – 2
1. Advance Budget Spending Authorization
Adopted Resolution #26-07, thereby authorizing continuation of payroll, operations, professional
services, and maintenance of District assets, as outlined in the Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year (FY)
2026-27. Consideration of this authorization request is in advance of the Final
FY 2026-27 District Budget that is scheduled to be presented for adoption on August 13, 2026.
2. Wildfire Smoke and District Outreach
Received and filed a report on the District’s outreach and engagement regarding wildfire smoke
preparedness and smoke impacts in Placer County.
Motion:
Action:
Ayes:

Anthony Demattei / Suzanne Jones
Approved Consent Items 1 - 2 / Unanimous Vote 7:0
Douglass/Alvord/Demattei/Pearl/Ring/Janda/Jones

Public Hearing/No Action: Item 3
3. Proposed Budget Fiscal Year 2026-27 Public Hearing
Conducted a Public Hearing for the purpose of reviewing the District’s FY 2026-27 Proposed
Budget in accordance with the Health and Safety Code §40131(3)(A) that states: “The district
shall notice and hold a public hearing for the exclusive purpose of reviewing its budget and of
providing the public with the opportunity to comment upon the proposed district budget.” District
management also seeks guidance from the Board regarding any changes to this Proposed Budget
for FY 2026-27 for inclusion in the Final Budget, which will be presented to the District Board for
adoption on August 13, 2026.
No action on the Proposed Budget was required.
Action: Item 4
4. New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at
New Data Centers
Considered the “Policy - Air Pollution Emissions Requirements for Diesel-Fired Emergency
Generator Engines at New Data Centers”, requiring the use of Tier 4 Final certified diesel-fired
emergency generator engines at new Data Centers. No action taken. Staff will further review and
revise the item and return it to the Board at the 8/13/2026 meeting as a Consent item.

Page 6 of 109

MINUTES: PCAPCD Board Meeting
June 11, 2026
Page 2 of 2
Information: Item 5
5. Fiscal Audit Report for the Two Years Ended June 30, 2025
No action was requested. This was an informational item on the statutorily required audit of the
District biennial audit of the financial report for FY Ending June 30, 2025.
Air Pollution Control Officer Report
General APCO Updates
A. Incentive Updates:
i. Clean Air Grants
ii. Farmer
iii. Hex Chrome Funding Program
iv. RCD Pilot Agriculture Chipping Program
v. Woodstove
vi. Driving Clean Assistance Program
vii. Air Filtration in Schools
viii. Residential Air Cleaner Distribution to Low Income Households in the Lake
Tahoe Air Basin
B. Conference/Advocacy Update
i. Districts were well represented at 2026 Cap to Cap event.
ii. Other key topics: Federal funding and federal EPA deregulatory impacts
iii.
Continued conversations around State budget and electricity reliability around
Data Centers
C. Fiscal Update
i. District remains on budget
Meeting Adjournment: 4:31 p.m.
Next regularly scheduled Board Meeting: August 13, 2026
Minutes prepared by:

Gina Ledesma-Reyes, Clerk of the Board
Minutes approved by Board of Directors:
Attest: ______________________________

August 13, 2026

Page 7 of 109

Board Agenda Item 1
Consent
Agenda Date:

August 13, 2026

Prepared By:

Murat Onder, Air Pollution Control Engineer

Topic:

Approve New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency
Generator Engines at New Data Centers

Action Requested: Approval of the Policy for Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator
Engines at New Data Centers requiring the use of Tier 4 Final certified diesel-fired emergency
generator engines at new Data Centers.
Background: At the District Board Meeting on June 11, 2026, Board Item No. 4, a new policy
was proposed on permitting requirements for diesel-fired emergency generator engines at new
Data Centers (“Policy”). The Policy would require the cleanest-burning, Tier 4 Final certified
diesel-fired backup emergency generator engines when diesel-fired backup engines are
proposed to be utilized. See the Board Memo and proposed Policy in Attachment #1.
Board discussion at the June 11, 2026, meeting included questions on the clarity and
implementation of the Policy’s proposed exemption for engines not used for Data Center
operations, plans to phase out Tier 0-3 engines at existing Data Centers, and logistics and
cost-effectiveness of the Policy. The Board directed the District to thoroughly consider these
questions and return with a revised Policy, as appropriate.
Discussion: Board questions and District responses are provided in Attachment #2.
Based on the Board’s feedback and questions, the proposed Policy has been modified to
provide clarity on the engine exemption by adding specific examples of potentially exempt
stationary and portable engines, such as those used for snow melting, snow blowing, flood
water pumping, and fire water pumping. Specifically, paragraph #2 of the Policy’s
Applicability section has been revised as:
“Any engines not utilized for Data Center operations, including (on-site computing
and cooling), but still under the same facility (at the same site, are may be exempt
from this Policy. granted Exempt engines may include, but are not limited to, those
used for snow melting, snow blowing, flood water pumping, and fire water pumping.
However, they must satisfy at least Tier 3 Engine Standards and AB 2588 Air Toxics
Analysis. Engine exemption status remains at the discretion of the APCO.”
The full revised Policy is shown in Attachment #3.
Fiscal Impact: The proposed Policy is not expected to have any impact on District resources.

Page 8 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 1
August 13, 2026
Page 2 of 2
Recommendation: District staff recommends approval of Item #1: “Policy - Permitting of
Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers” requiring the use of Tier 4
Final certified diesel-fired emergency generator engines when such engines are proposed at
new Data Centers.
Attachment #1: Board Memo, District Board Meeting, June 11, 2026, Board Item No. 4, New
Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data
Centers
Attachment #2: Questions and Answers, New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired
Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers, District Board Meeting, June 11, 2026,
Board Item No. 4.
Attachment #3: Revised Policy (with edits) - Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator
Engines at New Data Centers
Attachment #4: Revised Policy (Clean copy) - Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator
Engines at New Data Centers

Page 9 of 109

ATTACHMENT #1
SUBJECT:
Board Memo, District Board Meeting, June 11, 2026, Board Item No. 4
New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at
New Data Centers

Page 10 of 109

Board Agenda Item 4
Action
Agenda Date:

June 11, 2026

Prepared By:

Murat Onder, Air Pollution Control Engineer

Topic:

Consideration of a New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired
Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers

Action Requested: Approval of the “Policy -- Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator
Engines at New Data Centers” (Attachment #1), requiring the use of Tier 4 Final certified
diesel-fired emergency generator engines at new Data Centers.
Background: The siting of new “Data Centers” (DCs) -- buildings housing and powering large
computer systems -- is increasing state- and nationwide to meet the demand of Artificial
Intelligence workloads (e.g., Feiger 2026). DC computers utilize electricity for operations
and cooling. DC electricity requirements vary widely (Han et al. 2024). Smaller DCs
(serving individual companies or close to end-users) may only require 0.5-10 megawatts
(MW) of electricity, while large (hyperscale) recent DCs (cloud and AI) can require a range of
anywhere from 100 to 1,000 MW of electricity.
DCs typically use on-site emergency (back-up) generators (BUGs) to ensure reliable and
uninterrupted power. Typically, reliability for DCs is designed for over 99.99% uptime.
Currently, diesel-fired BUGs (D-BUGs) are the most cost-effective alternative to provide onsite emergency electricity generation. The large number of D-BUGs needed to provide
adequate power at DCs could significantly increase public health risk from diesel engine
exhaust and prompt the need for best available control measures. Diesel engine exhaust
includes diesel particulate matter (DPM) and acrolein, harmful carcinogens causing cancer
and cardiovascular disease; as well as oxides of nitrogen (NOx), a primary contributor to
formation of ground level ozone (IARC, 2014).
Discussion: To issue a permit for D-BUGs, the District conducts a “New Source Review”
according to District Rule 502, New Source Review. This includes an evaluation of the use of
“Best Available Control Technology” (BACT) and air toxics risk to the local neighboring
community.
Currently the District considers BACT for D-BUGs as the use of “Tier 3” certified engines (or
better). Lower emitting “Tier 4 Final” (Tier 4F) engines are now widely available in most
engine sizes and applications. Table 1 compares air pollutant emissions from Tier 3 and Tier
4F engines. Tier 4F engines have significantly lower NOx (∼85%) and DPM (∼95%)
emissions due to the add-on use of Selective Catalytic Reduction and DPM filters,
respectively. Additionally, Tier 4F engines have lower acrolein emissions due to better fuel
efficiency and more complete combustion.

Page 11 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 4
June 11, 2026
Page 2 of 3
The District does not currently require BACT for all applications of D-BUGs as Tier 4F
because:
•

•
•

Tier 4F emission reduction cost effectiveness ($/ton reduced) is high for smaller DBUGs (more typical in non-DC applications). The cost of a smaller Tier 4F engine
can be 50% higher than a similar-sized Tier 3 engine (PGA 2026, Turnkey Industries
2026).
Emissions reductions are small due to limited allowable (permitted) hours of use for
testing and maintenance, and typically very low emergency usage due to the excellent
reliability of the local electricity grid.
Most Districts do not require Tier 4F engines as BACT for all D-BUGs. Only a few
Districts have made such a determination, including the Sacramento Air Quality
Management District and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.

However, for D-BUGs at all new DCs, the District is proposing to require the use of Tier 4F
engines. This is because:
•
•
•

•
•

Because of the high reliability requirements at DCs, it is expected that D-BUGs at DCs
will run for significantly greater lengths of time relative to D-BUGs in non-DC
applications/locations.
For the typically larger-sized DC D-BUGs, the cost difference between Tier 4F and
Tier 3 is only around 20% (PGA 2026, Turnkey Industries 2026).
The potential for new DCs with many large D-BUGs near communities with sensitive
receptors. The requirement for Tier 4F engines ensures proactively mitigating air
pollution impacts on neighboring communities. Air pollution from DC D-BUG testing
and maintenance operations alone can be significant (EPRI 2024).
Tier 4F D-BUGs would be required to meet DPM and acrolein air toxics risk
thresholds for applications where DCs are sited near sensitive receptors, particularly if
D-BUGs are needed to operate during extended emergency periods.
Requiring Tier 4F engines will provide a significant (85%) reduction in D-BUG NOx
emissions. Limiting NOx emission impacts from D-BUG operations is critical for the
District to attain and maintain Federal Ambient Air Quality Standards for ground level
ozone.

Fiscal Impact: The proposed policy is not expected to have any impact on District resources.
However, for facilities that are seeking a permit for a new DC, the proposed policy may, in
some limited cases – i.e., for smaller engines (e.g., < 300 kilowatt combined) and where the
distance to nearby receptors is great -- require a Tier 4F engine whereas otherwise a Tier 3
might have been accepted under current permitting procedures. However, the number of these
situations is expected to be low, as new DCs are not expected to have small generators and/or
be located in non-populated areas.
Recommendation: District staff recommends approval of the “Policy -- Permitting of DieselFired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers” requiring the use of Tier 4F
certified diesel-fired emergency generator engines at new Data Centers.
Attachment #1: Policy -- Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data
Centers

Page 12 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 4
June 11, 2026
Page 3 of 3
References:
EPRI, Powering intelligence: Analyzing artificial intelligence and data center energy
consumption, Product ID 3002028905, 2024.
Feiger E, “It Snuck up on a Lot of Communities’: Data Center Expansion is Forcing Residents to
Find New Power Providers,” The Cool Down, May 11, 2026.
Han Y, Z WU, P LI, A Wierman, S Ren. “The Unpaid Toll: Quantifying and Addressing the
Public Health Impact of Data Centers,” Working Paper arXiv:2412.06288, Dec. 9, 2024.
IARC, “Diesel and Gasoline Engine Exhausts and Some Nitroarenes”, IARC Monographs on the
Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans Volume 105, 2014.
PGA (Power Generation Enterprises), EPA Tier 3 v Tier 4 Final: Generator Emissions Guide,
https://powergenenterprises.com/tier-3-vs-tier-4-diesel-generator-emissions, January 27,
2026
Turnkey Industries, “Is Your Generator Tier 3 or Tier 4 – and Does Your State Require It?,”
https://turnkey-industries.com/generator-tips/tier-3-vs-tier-4-diesel-generators-staterequirements, May 2026.
Table 1. Comparison of air pollutant emission standards for Tier 3 and Tier 4 Final off-road
diesel engines.
Engine Size
NOx

PM10

37 ≤ kW < 56
56 ≤ kW < 75
75 ≤ kW < 130
130 ≤ kW < 225
225 ≤ kW < 450
450 ≤ kW < 560
560 < kW
37 ≤ kW < 56
56 ≤ kW < 75
75 ≤ kW < 130
130 ≤ kW < 225
225 ≤ kW < 450
450 ≤ kW < 560
560 < kW

Tier 3
g/kW-hr
4.46
4.46
3.82
3.82
3.82
3.82
3.57
-0.40
0.30
0.20
0.20
0.20
0.12

Tier 4F
g/kW-hr
4.46
0.40
0.40
0.40
0.40
0.40
0.67
0.03
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.03

Page 13 of 109

ATTACHMENT #2
SUBJECT:
Policy – Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers
(June 11, 2026)

Page 14 of 109

PLACER COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT POLICY 5H
AIR POLLUTION EMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS FOR DIESEL-FIRED EMERGENCY GENERATOR
ENGINES AT NEW DATA CENTERS

Background/Purpose:
The siting of new “Data Centers” -- buildings housing and powering large computer systems -- is
increasing state- and nationwide to meet the demand of Artificial Intelligence workloads. Data
Center computers require significant electricity for operations and cooling, requiring as much as
100 to 1,000 MW per Data Center. Data Centers typically use on-site emergency (back-up)
generators to ensure reliable and uninterrupted power. Diesel-fired engine generators are the most
cost-effective alternative to provide on-site emergency electricity generation. Diesel engine
exhaust contains toxics constituents including Diesel Particulate Matter and Acrolein, which cause
cancer and cardiovascular disease, as well as NOx, a primary contributor to the formation of
ground level ozone. To ensure the protection of community health and to achieve regional air
quality goals, diesel engines for emergency generators at new Data Centers are required to be Tier
4 Final certified.
Applicability:
This policy applies to the review and approval of Authority to Construct applications for dieselfired engines for emergency generators used at new Data Centers. It requires Tier 4 Final certified
diesel engines for emergency generators used at new Data Centers. It applies to engines of all
rated sizes. A Data Center is a “facility housing information technology infrastructure (networked
computers, servers, and data storage drives) for storing, processing, and delivering digital
information to power everything from cloud computing, mobile, apps, AI, and streaming services.”
Any engines not utilized for Data Center operations (on-site computing and cooling), but at the
same site) may be exempt from this Policy. Exempt engines may include, but are not limited to,
those used for snow melting, snow blowing, flood water pumping, and fire water pumping.
However, they must satisfy at least Tier 3 Engine Standards and AB 2588 Air Toxics Analysis.
Engine exemption status remains at the discretion of the APCO.
Policy Statement:
It is the policy of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District to require the use of Tier 4 Final
certified diesel-fired engines used for emergency generators at new Data Centers, at the discretion
of the APCO.
Prepared By: Murat Onder. Air Pollution Control Engineer
Board Adoption Date: June 11, 2026
Attest:

Clerk of the Board

PCAPCD POLICY 5H
PAGE 1 OF 1

DIESEL-FIRED EMERGENCY GENERATOR ENGINES AT NEW DATA CENTERS
JUNE 11, 2026

Page 15 of 109

ATTACHMENT #3
SUBJECT:
Questions and Answers
New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at
New Data Centers
District Board Meeting, June 11, 2026, Board Item No. 4

Page 16 of 109

Questions and Answers
New Policy Regarding the Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at
New Data Centers
District Board Meeting, June 11, 2026, Board Item No. 4
Q1

For Data Centers with multiple diesel-fired backup generators (D-BUGs), would the multiple
D-BUGs be allowed to simultaneously operate for maintenance and testing purposes? (Dir.
Janda, 55 min.)
Response: District permits for existing D-BUGs specify a limit on the total hours per
calendar year allowed to run for maintenance and testing purposes. The permits do not
restrict the ability to run multiple D-BUGs at the same time. This is in part because: (1)
the health risk from air pollutants from D-BUGs are generally chronic (long-term) and not
acute, and (2) there are no situations of public nuisance due to their typically lower number,
smaller size, and location.
Because future Data Centers might have multiple, large D-BUGs and be located near
sensitive receptors, for future Data Centers we may consider adding a permit condition
prohibiting multiple D-BUGs from running simultaneously for maintenance and testing
purposes. However, in instances where industry safety standards require full-load tests, the
District would accommodate such a request.

Does the District have plans to require Tier 2 D-BUGs currently permitted at Data Centers
be retired (sunsetting)? (Dir. Janda, 59 min.)
Response: No. The District does not have plans to require existing Data Center Tier 2 DBUGs, or Tier 2 D-BUGs used at any other operations, to be replaced or shut down.
For all D-BUGs the District has conducted public health risk assessments demonstrating
compliance with District cancer and acute health impact thresholds prior to permit
issuance. Under California AB2588 requirements, health risk is reassessed periodically to
ensure thresholds continue to be met as receptors and operations potentially change.
Further, the District, in coordination with our other partner Districts of the Sacramento
Valley Air Basin, has a comprehensive State Implementation Plan (SIP) to attain U.S. EPA
National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The SIP is reviewed and approved by the State
and Federal U.S. EPA. The SIP includes emissions from all currently allowable permitted
D-BUGs. Potential emissions reductions from upgrades of existing D-BUGs would be
small and not cost-effective as a result of very low usage for emergency purposes from
reliable local grid electricity supply.

Do Tier 4F D-BUGs have lower acrolein emissions because acrolein is a cancer-causing part
of the diesel particulate matter? (Dir. Jones, 62 min.)

Page 17 of 109

Response: No. Acrolein (C3H4O) is a gaseous volatile organic hydrocarbon. It is not a
component of the solid diesel particulate matter and is not controlled by diesel particulate
matter filters used on Tier 4F engines. Acrolein is a result of incomplete combustion of the
diesel fuel. It is controlled and limited by achieving efficient combustion of the diesel fuel
and air -- maintaining high reaction temperature, good mixing, and sufficient residence
time. Tier 4F engines have acrolein emissions that are estimated 25% lower than Tier 3.
Q4

Why were the Roseville Sewage Treatment Plant and Kaiser Hospital allowed to install Tier
2 D-BUGs? (Dir. DeMattei, 66 min.)
Response: For Kaiser Hospital, there are two existing 3,000 hp D-BUGs with Tier 2
engines and add-on diesel particulate matter filters. They were approved by the District
and installed in 2022. They were determined to meet the requirement to use Best Available
Control Technology due to: (1) diesel particulate matter emission level equivalent to those
of Tier 4F engines, (2) lack of Tier 3 standards for this larger engine size, and (3) actual
NOx emission level of the Tier 2 engines meet the State Air Toxics Control Measure for
D-BUGs.
For the Roseville Wastewater Treatment Plant, there are two existing 3,000 hp D-BUGs
with Tier 2 engines. They were approved by the District and installed in 2005. The facility
has current plans to replace the generators with new Tier 2 engines due to their ability to
meet the State Air Toxics Control Measure for D-BUGs and health risk thresholds and the
lack of Tier 3 standards for this larger size rating.

It is not good public policy (does not establish a level business playing field) to require Data
Centers to use higher cost Tier 4F D-BUGs while allowing other applications to use lower
cost Tier 3 D-BUGs. (Dir. DeMattei, 69 min.)
Response: The proposed policy requirement for the lowest emitting Tier 4F D-BUGs at
Data Centers is due to their potentially significant regional air pollution emissions from
their large number and size and potentially frequent use for emergency purposes from the
need for a very high degree of uptime (> 99.99%) for Data Centers compared with other
applications. For the larger D-BUG engine sizes anticipated at Data Centers, the cost of
Tier 4F engines is not significantly higher than Tier 3 and insignificant compared with the
entire Data Center investment.
Additionally, given the size and number of D-BUGs anticipated at Data Centers, and close
proximity to sensitive receptors, a Data Center application to the District would most likely
trigger a Health Risk Assessment. This would in turn would likely require the installation
of Tier 4F D-BUGs. As such, this policy aims to provide advanced notice to potential
applicants.

Does the proposed Data Center policy apply to all Data Centers regardless of the size of the
Data Center? (Dir. Alvord, 73 min.)

Page 18 of 109

Response: Yes. The policy will apply to all Data Center D-BUGs, regardless of the Data
Center computing and cooling needs and D-BUG number or size. This is due to the wide
availability of Tier 4F engines, relatively smaller cost difference for the larger engines
anticipated at Data Centers, and the likely greater need for D-BUG operation due to
extremely high (> 99.99%) Data Center uptime demand.
Q7

Will D-BUGs be allowed to be used in situations where the electricity grid is being strained
but there is not a blackout? (Dir. Janda, 74 min.)
Response: D-BUGs may only be used in non-emergency situations (where utility line
power is not lost, as defined and discussed in Q16 below) when they are signed up to
participate in a legitimate local utility-dispatched demand response program, or there is a
declared energy emergency declared by the Governor through an Executive Order which
suspends local restrictions on their operation. For those applicable engines, the facility
must report their engine’s electrical demand reduction operation usage to the District within
seven calendar days.

How long can D-BUGS be used (what is their lifetime) before they need to be replaced? (Dir.
Alvord, 77 min.)
Response: Diesel engines, when properly serviced and maintained, are extremely reliable
and durable, and can typically run effectively for up to 35,000 hours. Given the low
runtime typical of backup emergency applications, this operational lifespan frequently
translates to several decades of service.

Why does the District require the more expensive Tier 3 D-BUGs instead of the cheaper Tier
2 if there is not much improvement in air quality? (Dir. DeMattei, 78 min.)
Response: Tier 3 engine cost-effectiveness for NOx control meets State and District
guidelines. Tier 3 engines utilize exhaust gas recirculation for NOx control. They have
35% lower NOx compared with Tier 2 with a modest increase in purchase cost and very
little increase in operating cost.

Q10 How much better are Tier 4F D-BUGs for air quality? (Dir. Alvord, 79 min.)
Response: Compared with Tier 3 engines, Tier 4F engines have exhaust gas add-on
treatment technologies of a diesel particulate matter filter and selective catalytic reduction
which reduce diesel particulate matter and NOx by 85% and 95%, respectively.
Q11 For the smallest D-BUG rated size category, are the Tier 4F and Tier 3 air emission standards
the same? (Dir. Ring, 81 min.)
Response: Yes. For the smallest engine size category of > 37 kW and < 56 kW, the Tier
4F and 3 standards are the same. For this small engine size, the addition of a Tier 4F diesel
particulate matter filter or selective catalytic reduction system is not cost-effective.

Page 19 of 109

Q12 What is meant by the Board Policy in the 2nd paragraph which says diesel engines at a data
center but not used for Data Center operations are exempt from this policy? (Dir. Ring, 82
min.)
Response: The policy will not apply to diesel engines at Data Centers which are not used
for powering or cooling the computing operations. These engines may include those for
snow melting, snow blowing, flood pumping, or fire water pumps – where the engines are
needed for maintaining Data Center for employees and the public. Clarifying language has
been added to the policy.
Q13 Why would we allow non-Tier 4F engines for secondary applications at a Data Center, while
strictly requiring Tier 4F engines for the primary computing operations? (Dir. DeMattei, 89
min.)
Response: Diesel engines which may be used at Data Centers but do not directly support
computing could include those for snow melting, snow blowing, flood pumping, or fire
water pumps. Tier 4F engines may not be available for these types of specialized
applications. These engines are not expected to be of significant rated size or used very
frequently. Their use is critical for maintaining the safety of Data Center staff and the
public.
Q14 Is the policy attempting to discourage Data Center projects from choosing to locate in Placer
County? (Dir. DeMattei, 89 min.)
Response: No. The proposed District policy does not prevent or discourage Data Centers
in Placer County. Tier 4F D-BUGs have been available for over a decade now and are well
demonstrated for use at data center applications, and are required by some Districts for all
D-BUG applications. For the larger D-BUGs anticipated at future data centers, the
additional expense of Tier 4F engines relative to Tier 3 models is marginal when weighed
against total Data Center investment costs.
Q15 The District is currently not in attainment with U.S. EPA National Ambient Air Quality
Standards (NAAQS), and we require regional air emissions reductions, thus we should not
allow new Data Centers with new D-BUGs.
Response: The District, in coordination with our other partner Districts of the Sacramento
Valley Air Basin, has a comprehensive State Implementation Plan (SIP) to attain NAAQSs.
The SIP is reviewed and approved by the State and Federal U.S. EPA. It includes a New
Source Review program under District 502, New Source Review. Rule 502 allows new
sources of air pollution, but require they meet stringent requirements for mitigating air
pollution, including Best Available Control and Emission Reduction Credits. The SIP
holistically considers the full range of the region’s air pollution inventory, including mobile
and area sources, and implements the most cost-effective approaches for achieving the
NAAQS. The SIP is a working document and is periodically reviewed and updated based
on ongoing changes to the region’s sources of air pollution.

Page 20 of 109

Q16: What is the definition of an emergency? (Dir. Ring, 95 min.)
Response: An emergency engine is defined in District Rule 242, Stationary Internal
Combustion Engines, Section 205, as:
“An internal combustion engine used only as follows: (1) When normal power line or
natural gas service fails; (2) For the emergency pumping of water for either fire
protection or flood relief.”
District permits for D-BUGs define emergency as “operation for other than maintenance
purposes shall be limited to involuntary interruptions of electrical power.”
Q17 Does the District have plans to require existing permitted Tier 2 or lower D-BUGs to shut
down and be removed? (Dir. Ring, 99 min.)
Response: No. As discussed above in Q2, the District plans to meet our NAAQS
requirements without changes to existing permitted D-BUG operations. This is in part
because it would not be cost-effective to require these upgrades due to the relatively high
cost for correspondingly low emission reductions resulting from low use for emergency
purposes.
Q18 Will the new Data Center being proposed in West Roseville be required to use Tier 4F DBUGs? (Dir. Alvord, 105 min)
Response: If this policy is approved, it will require the new West Roseville Data Center to
use Tier 4F D-BUGs. Preliminary environmental documents the District has reviewed to
date indicate the proposed West Roseville Data Center facility will utilize Tier 4F D-BUGs.
The District has not seen a formal Environmental Impact Report or Authority to Construct
application for the required District permits.

Page 21 of 109

ATTACHMENT #3
SUBJECT:
Revised (with edits)
Policy - Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers

Page 22 of 109

PLACER COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT POLICY 5H
AIR POLLUTION EMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS FOR DIESEL -FIRED EMERGENCY GENERATOR
ENGINES AT NEW DATA CENTERS

Background/Purpose:
The siting of new “Data Centers” -- buildings housing and powering large computer systems -- is
increasing state- and nationwide to meet the demand of Artificial Intelligence workloads. Data
Center computers require significant electricity for operations and cooling, requiring as much as
100 to 1,000 MW per Data Center. Data Centers typically use on-site emergency (back-up)
generators to ensure reliable and uninterrupted power. Diesel-fired engine generators are the most
cost-effective alternative to provide on-site emergency electricity generation. Diesel engine
exhaust contains toxics constituents including Diesel Particulate Matter and Acrolein, which cause
cancer and cardiovascular disease, as well as NOx, a primary contributor to the formation of
ground level ozone. To ensure the protection of community health and to achieve regional air
quality goals, diesel engines for emergency generators at new Data Centers are required to be Tier
4 Final certified.
Applicability:
This policy applies to the review and approval of Authority to Construct applications for dieselfired engines for emergency generators used at new Data Centers. It requires Tier 4 Final certified
diesel engines for emergency generators used at new Data Centers. It applies to engines of all
rated sizes. A Data Center is a “facility housing information technology infrastructure (networked
computers, servers, and data storage drives) for storing, processing, and delivering digital
information to power everything from cloud computing, mobile, apps, AI, and streaming services.”
Any engines not utilized for Data Center operations, including (on-site computing and cooling),
but still under the same facility (at the same site), are may be exempt from this Policy, granted
they. Exempt engines may include, but are not limited to, those used for snow melting, snow
blowing, flood water pumping, and fire water pumping. However, they must satisfy at least Tier
3 Engine Standards and AB 2588 Air Toxics Analysis. Engine exemption status remains at the
discretion of the APCO.
Policy Statement:
It is the policy of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District to require the use of Tier 4 Final
certified diesel-fired engines used for emergency generators at new Data Centers, at the discretion
of the APCO.
Prepared By: Murat Onder. Air Pollution Control Engineer
Board Adoption Date: June 11, 2026
Attest:

Clerk of the Board

PCAPCD POLICY 5H
PAGE 1 OF 1

DIESEL-FIRED EMERGENCY GENERATOR ENGINES AT NEW DATA CENTERS
JUNE 11, 2026

Page 23 of 109

ATTACHMENT #4
SUBJECT:
Revised (Clean copy)
Policy - Permitting of Diesel-Fired Emergency Generator Engines at New Data Centers

Page 24 of 109

PLACER COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT POLICY 5H
AIR POLLUTION EMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS FOR DIESEL-FIRED EMERGENCY
GENERATOR ENGINES AT NEW DATA CENTERS

Clerk of the Board
PCAPCD POLICY 5H
PAGE 1 OF 1

DIESEL-FIRED EMERGENCY GENERATOR ENGINES AT NEW DATA CENTERS
AUGUST 13, 2026

Page 25 of 109

Board Agenda Item 2
Consent

Agenda Date:

August 13, 2026

Prepared By:

Gina Ledesma-Reyes, Clerk of the Board

Topic:

Hearing Board Member Term Expiration and Reappointment

Action Requested: Reappoint current District Hearing Board member, Mr. D. Steven Parks,
extending his term of office an additional three years, to August 10, 2029.
Discussion: Mr. Steven Parks, the District Hearing Board’s Law Practitioner representative, is
well qualified for his appointment, and has faithfully served on the District Hearing Board.
The reappointment of hearing board members is necessary to provide a continued ability (as
required by State statute) for the District Hearing Board to hear variance petitions from District
Staff, the public and permitted industry. He has indicated his willingness to serve another threeyear term. The current term of office for his position expires on August 10, 2026. Upon the
District Board’s reappointment, his term of office will be extended for another three-year term,
to August 10, 2029.
Recommendation: Staff recommend the reappointment of Mr. D. Steven Parks, as the District
Hearing Board’s Law Practitioner representative, to the Placer County Air Pollution
Control District Hearing Board, through August 10, 2029.

Page 26 of 109

Board Agenda Item 3
Consent
Agenda Date:

August 13, 2026

Prepared By:

Shannon Harroun, Staff Services Analyst

Topic:

Proposed Hearing Board Administration Policy

Action Requested: Adopt the proposed Placer Air Pollution Control District Policy #2N, Hearing
Board Administration Policy.
Background: California Health and Safety Code Section 40800 states, “There is continued in
existence and shall be, in each district, one or more hearing boards consisting of five members
each, as specified in Section 40801, appointed by the district board.” The Hearing Board
performs the quasi-judicial functions set forth in Health and Safety Code (HSC) Chapter 8
(§40800-§40865), including hearing petitions for variances or modifications from air pollution
rules or permit conditions, including the denial, approval or revocation of a permit, and orders
for abatement. Placer County Air Pollution Control District (District) Regulation 7 addresses
District Hearing Board procedures.
Discussion: This proposed policy is to formally set forth the administrative requirements related
to Hearing Board operations, including District staff responsibilities, composition of hearing
board members, training requirements, and conflict of interest filing requirements.
Fiscal Impact: Allowance for compensation of hearing board members for attendance at hearings
and completing state mandated trainings is included in the FY 26-27 Proposed Final Budget.
Recommendation: The District recommends adoption of Placer County Air Pollution Control
District Policy #2N Hearing Board Administration.

Attachments:

#1: Proposed Hearing Board Administration Policy

Page 27 of 109

ATTACHMENT # 1
SUBJECT:

Placer County Air Pollution Control District Proposed
Hearing Board Administration Policy

Page 28 of 109

PLACER COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT POLICY (2N)

HEARING BOARD ADMINISTRATION
Background/Purpose:
California Health and Safety Code Section 40800 states, “There is continued in existence and shall
be, in each district, one or more hearing boards consisting of five members each, as specified in
Section 40801, appointed by the district board.” The Hearing Board performs the quasi-judicial
functions set forth in Health and Safety Code (HSC) Chapter 8 (§40800-§40865), including
hearing petitions for variances or modifications from air pollution rules or permit conditions,
including the denial, approval or revocation of a permit, and orders for abatement. Placer County
Air Pollution Control District (District) Regulation 7 addresses District Hearing Board procedures.
This policy is to set forth the administrative requirements related to Hearing Board operations.
Applicability:
Responsible Staff. The District’s Clerk of the Board (Clerk) is responsible for administrative
procedures of the District Hearing Board. The Clerk provides notices of public hearings, and
completed variances and abatement orders, in accordance with California HSC §40800-§40865
and District Regulation 7. The Clerk maintains the roster of the Hearing Board members and their
appointment expiration dates. The Clerk also coordinates: Hearing Board appointments by the
District Board of Directors; hearing attendance; compensation; training completion and
documentation; deadline compliance; and Conflict of Interest (Form 700) filings.
The District’s Permitting Division Manager and Permitting and Engineering Section Supervisor
determine when hearings are necessary, schedule hearings, and maintain the District’s official
records related to hearing board matters.
Composition. The District Hearing Board is designated to be composed of five (5) members with
three (3) year terms, appointed by the Air Pollution Control District Board of Directors. Health &
Safety Code, §40800 and §40801 specifies that the members shall consist of one California lawyer,
one registered professional engineer, two public “at large” members, one medical professional
whose skills, training, or interests are in the field of environmental medicine, community medicine,
or occupational/toxicologic medicine, and alternates to each of these positions. However, the
District’s Board of Directors may appoint members of the general public to the designated
professional positions if necessary, due to an exemption in Health & Safety Code §40802, based
on the size of the District. Each member may have one alternate, who may serve only in the absence
of the member, and for the same term as the member. An alternate shall not hold any of the single
member hearings authorized by law.
Compensation. Consistent with any applicable state law, members or alternate members of the
Hearing Board may be entitled to receive: a per hearing stipend of $100; mileage reimbursement
at the current rate as assigned by the Placer County Auditor’s Office for personal automobile travel
between home or business and the location of each hearing, meeting, or training; a reimbursement
of $100 for each state mandated or District approved training course completed; and
reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred in connection with activities required

PCAPCD POLICY
PAGE 1 OF 2

HEARING BOARD ADMINISTRATION
ADOPTION DATE: 8/13/2026

Page 29 of 109

for the proper execution of their duties and responsibilities. Hearing Board members may be
entitled to reimbursement for meals or lodging expenses only if expressly authorized in advance
by the Air Pollution Control Officer, in accordance with Placer County Travel and Employee
Expense Policy. A member who serves more than one local agency shall be reimbursed only once
for each state mandated training course completed.
Training. Hearing Board members will also attend trainings required by state law. Trainingsw
shall be completed remotely when possible. Hearing Board members may attend non-mandated
variance/hearing board trainings, upon approval by the Air Pollution Control Officer.
Conflict of Interest (Form 700) Filings. Hearing Board members are required to complete
conflict of interest (Form 700) Filings through the California Fair Political Practices Commission,
since they are designated positions on the District’s Conflict of Interest code.
Policy Statement:
It is the policy of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District to provide staff support for
administrative matters of the District Hearing Board, including appointments to the Hearing Board,
and coordination of compensation, training, and Conflict of Interest (Form 700) filings.
Prepared By: Shannon Harroun, Staff Services Analyst
District Board of Directors Adoption Date: August 13, 2026
Attest:

Clerk of the Board

PCAPCD POLICY
PAGE 2 OF 2

2N HEARING BOARD ADMINISTRATION POLICY
REVISION DATE: 8/13/2026

Page 30 of 109

Board Agenda Item 4
Consent
Agenda Date:

August 13, 2026

Prepared By:

Gina Ledesma-Reyes, APCD Board Clerk

Topic:

Conflict of Interest Code Amendment

Action Requested: Adopt Resolution #26-08 (Attachment #1), thereby approving the amendment
of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s Conflict of Interest Code.
Background: The Political Reform Act prohibits a public official from using his or her position
to influence a governmental decision in which he or she has a financial interest. As such, every
state and local agency must adopt a Conflict of Interest Code that identifies all officials and
employees within the agency who make governmental decisions based on the positions they
hold. The individuals in the designed positions must disclose their financial interests as
specified in the agency’s conflict of interest code. To help identify potential conflicts of
interest, the law requires public officials and employees in designated positions in a Conflict
of Interest Code to report their financial interests on a form called Statement of Economic
Interests (Form 700). The Conflict of Interest Codes and the Form 700s are fundamental tools
in ensuring that officials are acting in the public’s best interest and not their own.
Discussion: As required by law, the District must complete a biennial review of its Conflict of
Interest Code and submit any amendments, or a statement of no amendments, to the County
Board of Supervisors for approval. The District’s current Conflict of Interest Code was
approved by the Board on August 8, 2024. Upon review, the District has determined that its
current Conflict of Interest Code requires an amendment due to the addition of six new job
classifications and revisions to align the District's job titles with the County's job titles and the
District's organizational chart.
The proposed amendments are reflected in Resolution No. 26-08 (Attachment 1).The proposed
amendment adds the following designated positions:
1. Added Planner - Senior – Required to report on all disclosure categories
2. Added Air Pollution Control Engineer – Senior – Required to report on all disclosure
categories
3. Added Planner – Supervising – Required to report on all disclosure categories
4. Added Principal Air Pollution Control Engineer – Required to report on all disclosure
categories
5. Added Air Quality Specialist – Senior – Required to report on all disclosure categories
6. Added Accountant (I and II) – Required to report on disclosure categories 1,2, and 6
7. Added Air Pollution Control Engineer – Assistant – Required to report on all disclosure
categories
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
Recommendation: District staff recommend adoption of Resolution #26-08, thereby approving
the proposed amendment to the District’s Conflict of Interest Code.
Attachment #1: Resolution #26-08

Page 31 of 109

ATTACHMENT # 1
SUBJECT:

Resolution #26-08
Amendment of Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s
Conflict of Interest Code

Page 32 of 109

Board Resolution:
Resolution # 26-08

Before the Placer County
Air Pollution Control District Board of Directors
In the Matter Of:

Amendment of Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Model Conflict
of Interest Code previously adopted by the Placer County Air Pollution
Control District (District) Board of Directors on August 8, 2024.

The following RESOLUTION was duly passed by the Placer County Air Pollution Control
District Board of Directors at a regular meeting held on August 13, 2026, by the following vote:
Ayes:

Jones ______ Alvord ______ Pearl ______

Radell-Harris ______ Janda ______

DeMattei ______ Landon ______ McCully ______

Noes:

Alternates: __________________ ______

__________________ ______

Jones ______ Alvord ______ Pearl ______

Radell-Harris ______ Janda ______

DeMattei ______ Landon ______ McCully ______

Abstain:

Ring ______

Alternates: __________________ ______

__________________ ______

Jones ______ Alvord ______ Pearl ______

Radell-Harris ______ Janda ______

DeMattei ______ Landon ______ McCully ______
Alternates: __________________ ______

Ring ______

__________________ ______

Signed and approved by me after its passage:
____________________________________ Chairperson
____________________________________ Attest: Clerk of said Board

WHEREAS, The Political Reform Act of 1974, as amended ("the Act"), California
Government Code §81000 et seq. requires in Government Code §87300 that each agency subject
to the Act, including the Placer County Air Pollution Control District, adopt a local Conflict of
Interest Code; and

Resolution # 26-08

Page 33 of 109

WHEREAS, the Act provides in §87302 that each such local Conflict of Interest Code shall
designate positions within each agency subject to the Code and further designate the types of
reportable interests which must be disclosed by any such designated employee holding such
designated positions; and
WHEREAS, the Fair Political Practices Commission in administering the Act has adopted a
regulation (California Code of Regulations §18730) which permits agencies subject to the Act to
adopt by reference the Model Conflict of Interest Code developed by the Fair Political Practices
Commission; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Directors of the Placer County Air
Pollution Control District as follows:
1. That pursuant to the provisions of Government Code §87300 and (Title) 2 California Code
of Regulations §18730, the Board of Directors hereby incorporates by reference (Title) 2
California Code of Regulations Section 18730, and amends the Fair Political Practice
Commission's Model Conflict of Interest Code as set forth currently or as may hereafter be
amended, as the local Conflict of Interest Code of the Placer County Air Pollution Control
District (the "Code").
2. That said Code shall apply and be applicable to those persons in the service of the Placer
County Air Pollution Control District as listed below. Each employee occupying each
designated position shall be assigned to a disclosure category based on the descriptions
also set forth below.
3. That each employee in each designated position as listed below, shall report as required by
the Code, all reportable interests for their particular disclosure category, and shall file their
statements of economic interests (Form 700) with the District’s Clerk of the Board, who is
the District’s Filing Official and Designated Representative for the Form 700 program. The
Form 700 may be filed electronically via the Placer County Form 700 electronic submittal
website; or via submittal of the original paper copy to the District’s Clerk of the Board,
who receives completed Form 700 statements, forwards the originals to the Placer County
Elections Division, and retains a copy of each statement. The District will make Form 700
statements available for public inspection and reproduction (Gov. Code Sec. 81008).
4. That the designated positions and titles and disclosure categories are:
Position/title
District Board of Directors
Administrative and Fiscal Officer (I and II)
Air Pollution Control Officer
Deputy Air Pollution Control Officer
District Hearing Board Member
Planner – Assistant
Planner – Associate
Planner - Supervising

Disclosure Category
All
All
All
All
All
All
All
All

Resolution # 26-08

Page 34 of 109

Planner - Senior
Principal Air Pollution Control Engineer
Air Pollution Control Engineer - Senior
Air Pollution Control Engineer - Associate
Air Pollution Control Engineer - Assistant
Air Quality Specialist (I and II)
Air Quality Specialist - Senior
Administrative Technician
Staff Services Analyst (I and II)
Accounting Technician
Accountant (I and II)
Consultants *
New Positions *

All
All
All
All
All
All
All
1,2,6
1,2,6
1,2,6
1,2,6
All *
All *

*Consultants/New Positions are included in the list of designated positions and shall disclose pursuant
to the broadest disclosure category in the code, subject to the following limitation: The Air Pollution
Control Officer may determine in writing that a particular consultant or New Position, although a
"designated position", is hired to perform a range of duties that is limited in scope and thus is not
required to fully comply with the disclosure requirements in this section. Such written determination
shall include a description of the consultant's or New Position’s duties and, based upon that description,
a statement of the extent of disclosure requirements. The Air Pollution Control Officer's determination
is a public record and shall be retained for public inspection in the same manner and location as this
conflict-of-interest code. (Gov. Code Section 81008.)
Disclosure Categories
1. Investments and business positions in business entities, and sources of income, including loans,
gifts, and travel payments, from sources of the type that provide services, supplies, materials,
machinery, or equipment of the type utilized by the District.
2. Investments and business positions in business entities, and sources of income, including loans,
gifts, and travel payments, from all business entities, governmental entities and non-profits that
are regulated, as well as any homeowner/renter that is fined or cited by, the District.
3. Investments and business positions in business entities, and sources of income, including loans,
gifts, and travel payments, from sources of the type that engage in the acquisition, disposal, or
development of real property within the District.
4. Investments and business positions in business entities, and sources of income, including loans,
gifts, and travel payments, from sources of the type that regularly engage in the preparation of
environmental impact statements or reports.
5. Interests in real property located within the jurisdiction of the District or within two miles of
the boundaries of the jurisdiction of the District, or within two miles of any land owned or used
by the District.
6. Investments and business positions in business entities, and sources of income including loans,
gifts, and travel payments, from sources of the type that receive financial or technical assistance
from the District.

Resolution # 26-08

Page 35 of 109

Board Agenda Item 5
Public Hearing / Action
Agenda Date: August 13, 2026
Prepared By: Kristen Monroe, Administrative & Fiscal Officer
Topic: Final Budget Fiscal Year 2026-27 Public Hearing and Approval
Action Requested:
1) Conduct a Public Hearing for the purpose of reviewing the District’s Fiscal Year
(FY) 2026-27 Final Budget.
2) Adopt Resolution #26-09 (Attachment #1), thereby approving the District’s Final Budget
for FY 2026-27.
Discussion:
The FY 2026-27 Final Budget sustains core operations and program administration while
ensuring financial stability and strategic flexibility. With sufficient reserves, balanced
spending, and continued support for essential programs, the District remains well-positioned
to manage costs and advance public outreach, environmental initiatives, and regulatory
services.
The appropriations for staff costs include a vacancy factor that has been applied to more
accurately project personnel costs, anticipating a certain level of ongoing staff vacancies while
continuing to implement organizational restructuring. Management will continue to balance
workloads and available resources, ensuring optimal staffing levels without compromising our
service standards and program delivery.
The staffing budget also plans for the upcoming retirement of the Staff Services Analyst
responsible for contracts, risk, and policy maintenance, which is anticipated in the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year. Given the high degree of independence and deep institutional
knowledge required for this role, the budget includes appropriations to fund a temporary 30day crossover period. This funding will allow the district to onboard and train a successor
before the incumbent departs, ensuring a seamless operational transition. To facilitate this
timeline, management intends to utilize an existing vacant AQS position to initiate the
recruitment and hiring process ahead of the retirement date.
There are no changes requested to staffing allocations for the upcoming fiscal year.
The budget also funds up to three Board members to represent the District and attend the 2027
Cap-to-Cap event in Washington, D.C. Management will seek pre-approval for the selected
attendees at the October board meeting, enabling early travel arrangements to lock in lower
rates ahead of the February meeting.
Additionally, the budget increases the assigned operational reserve to equal 35% of the
operating budget. This strategy secures approximately four months of emergency funding,
thereby mitigating financial risk in the event of an economic downturn. To formalize these
fiscal protections, District management will develop a comprehensive reserve and investment
policy this fiscal year. This policy will officially codify the target reserve level, replenishment

Page 36 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 5
August 13, 2026
Page 2 of 3
recovery rates, and auxiliary investment funds, including the PARS trust for pension liability.
There is sufficient unassigned fund balance to fully fund the reserve.
The FARMER Fund (Funding Agricultural Replacement Measures for Emission Reductions),
consisting of one Program, is included in the FY 2026-27 budget for approval and supports
three multi-years, overlapping grants. These grants provide incentive funding to reduce
agricultural emissions through the replacement of older diesel-powered equipment. The State
began annual appropriations for the FARMER program in FY 2017-18; however, funding was
discontinued in the FY 2024-25 State Budget and has not been reinstated. The remaining three
grant agreements, covering FY 2021–22 through FY 2023–24, are expected to conclude by the
end of FY 2028. Most of the project funding has already been advanced or obligated, with all
associated administrative activities expected to be completed by that time.
The total Final Budget for FY 2026-27 is $20,760,171, comprising of $20,241,675 for District
Fund Operations and Projects and $518,496 for FARMER Fund Projects. This reflects a 38%
decrease from the final FY 2025-26 budget of $33,830,508. The decrease is primarily driven
by the correction in accounting for advanced basis grant funding, discussed in more detail in
the enclosed budget overview narrative.
Previous years’ budgets included fixed increases to the District’s fee schedule, as approved in
Resolution 18-04. This approved schedule of fee increases was fully implemented in the
FY 2022-23 budget. As a result, this FY the fee structure will include an increase directly tied
to the Consumer Price Index, as provided for in District Rule 601.
Beginning Fund Balance Summary (FD32400) District Operations and Projects:
•
•

Unassigned Fund Balance of $9,262,896
o $6,758,459 Grant Incentive and Mitigation Project obligated funding
o $2,504,437 District Operations
Restricted and Assigned Fund Balances of $5,131,497
o $2,040,022 Assigned – Reserves
o $25,000 Assigned - Capital Improvements
o $3,066,475 Restricted - PARS retirement

Revenues include:
•

FD32400 APCD - $10,978,778
• Permits/Fines/Fees of $2,013,000
• Investment Income of $679,948
• Federal Intergovernmental Transfers of $1,644,363
o $169,367 District Operations EPA Funding
o $1,474,996 EPA TAG Incentive Grant Funding
• State Intergovernmental Transfers of $6,124,859
o $2,706,478 DMV Tax and Other Programs for District Operations
o $3,418,381 DMV Tax for Projects and Incentive Grant funding

•

Other Miscellaneous Charges/Fees of $516,608

•

FD32404 FARMER - $518,496
• Investment Income of $100,000

Page 37 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 5
August 13, 2026
Page 3 of 3

•

State Intergovernmental Transfers of $418,496

Expenses include:
•

FD32400 APCD - $20,241,675
• Capital Assets of $109,000, which includes available funds for the purchase of a new
vehicle ($60K) and air monitoring replacement equipment ($49K) as needed in the
event of failure
• Salaries and Benefits of $4,320,706, which includes recent negotiated wage increases
and ongoing implementation of the organizational restructuring
• District operating expenses of $1,085,552
• Projects and incentive passthroughs of $12,016,301
• County 2 CFR 200 Cost Allocation of $263,375
• Operating Transfers of $50,000
o $50,000 transfer to the Settlement Fund for the annual building purchase
repayment
• Appropriations for Contingency of $2,396,740

•

FD32404 FARMER - $518,496
• Projects and incentive passthroughs of $518,496

Future FY Budgets: In developing the Final Budget for FY 2026-27, District Staff have evaluated
potential impacts of the current economic climate on future year budgets. This includes
potential changes in monies received from the State for operational and clean air incentive
programs, as well as changes in permit and enforcement revenues. District Staff have
conservatively evaluated budget scenarios that would potentially consider reduced State
revenues, as well as the elimination of funding for certain clean air grant programs. Even under
these potential future scenarios, District Staff are confident that the District will be able to
maintain fiscal prudence and continue to fulfill its statutory and regulatory obligations.
District Staff are prepared to quickly respond to changing budget environments, should they
be necessary. Potential responses include identifying options for salary savings, cutting
operational expenses, delaying planned investments (such as Building Fund repayments) and
utilizing reserve funds. District Staff will continue to regularly provide your Board with
information on the status of the District’s budget, and if any changes are needed.
Fiscal Impact Summary: The District provides a structurally balanced Final Budget for
FY 2026-27.
Recommendation: The Placer County Air Pollution Control District has complied with Health
& Safety Code sections 40131(3)(A) and 40131(3)(B) regarding the adoption of a Board
approved budget. Therefore, it is recommended that the Board adopt Resolution #26-09,
thereby approving the District’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27
Enclosure:

Final Budget FY 2026-27

Attachment #1: Resolution 26-09 for approval of the FY 2026-27 Final Budget

Page 38 of 109

ATTACHMENT # 1
SUBJECT:
Resolution #26-09 Final Budget Fiscal Year 2026-27

Page 39 of 109

Board Resolution:
Resolution #26-09

Before the Placer County
Air Pollution Control District Board of Directors
In the Matter Of:

Approval of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s (District)
Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 Final Budget.

The following RESOLUTION was duly passed by the Placer County Air Pollution Control
District Board of Directors (District Board) at a regular meeting held on August 13, 2026, by the
following vote:
Ayes:

Jones ______ Alvord ______ Pearl ______

Radell-Harris ______ Janda ______

DeMattei ______ Landon ______ McCully ______

Noes:

Alternates: __________________ ______

__________________ ______

Jones ______ Alvord ______ Pearl ______

Radell-Harris ______ Janda ______

DeMattei ______ Landon ______ McCully ______

Abstain:

Ring ______

Alternates: __________________ ______

__________________ ______

Jones ______ Alvord ______ Pearl ______

Radell-Harris ______ Janda ______

DeMattei ______ Landon ______ McCully ______
Alternates: __________________ ______

Ring ______

__________________ ______

Signed and approved by me after its passage:
____________________________________ Chairperson
____________________________________ Attest: Clerk of said Board
WHEREAS, on June 11, 2026, the District held a Public Hearing for the exclusive purpose of
reviewing its budget and providing the public with an opportunity to comment upon the Proposed
District budget, as required by Health and Safety Code Section 40131 (a)(3); and

Resolution #26-09

Page 40 of 109

WHEREAS, the District made available to the public at least 30 days prior to the August 13, 2026,
public hearing, a summary of the proposed budget, as required by Health and Safety Code Section
40131(a)(1); and
WHEREAS, the District provided public notice and direct mailings to persons subject to District
fees in the preceding year at least 30 days in advance of the scheduled public hearing on
August 13, 2026, as required by Health and Safety Code Section 40131(a)(2); and
WHEREAS, effective July 1, 2019, the District Fee Schedule 601-C (Section 316) was amended
to establish fees for excess emissions during variances, which are incorporated in this Final
FY 2026-27 Budget in accordance with the District Rule 601 Amendment adopted by the District
Board on April 12, 2018; and
WHEREAS, on August 13, 2026, the District Board held an appropriately noticed public hearing
for the purpose of considering and adopting the District’s Final Budget for FY 2026-27.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s
Board of Directors hereby approves the Final Budget of the Placer County Air Pollution Control
District for FY 2026-27, as shown in Enclosure #1 of the Staff Memorandum on the FY 2026-27
Budget; and further approves the increase to Assigned Reserves for a total of $2,040,022, which
represents 35% of the budget for district operations.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s Board of
Directors hereby expressly authorizes and directs the Air Pollution Control Officer or his designee,
to negotiate, sign, and amend as necessary, agreements on behalf of the District; to make such
purchases; and to expend, encumber, or disencumber funds, for budgeted expenditures included in
the Final Budget of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District for FY 2026-27.

Resolution #26-09

Page 41 of 109

Board Agenda Item 6
Closed Session
Agenda Date:

August 13, 2026

Prepared By:

Erik White, Air Pollution Control Officer

Topic:

Air Pollution Control Officer’s Performance Evaluation
(Closed Session)

Action Requested: Pursuant to Government Code §54957(b)(1), the Placer County Air Pollution
Control District (District) Board of Directors (Board) will hold a closed session to discuss the
annual performance evaluation of the Air Pollution Control Officer (APCO), Erik White, for
the period October 10, 2025, through the present. A report on any action taken will be presented
prior to adjournment.
Discussion:
The Employment Agreement between Placer County, the District (collectively known as
Employers), and Erik White (APCO/Director of Air Pollution Control/Employee) specifies
that the District Board shall annually evaluate the Employee’s performance. Section 3 of the
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the District and the County specifies that
with respect to District business:
1) the APCO receives his/her direction from and reports only to the District Board (§3B);
2) all decisions related to hiring, terminating, discipline, compensation, and evaluation of
the APCO will be made by the District Board with consideration of County Policies (§3C);
In past evaluations, a form has been utilized to capture comments from individual Board
members and has proven to be an effective tool in conducting the review. A copy of that form
is included as Attachment 1.
Attachment 2 contains a copy of the District’s January 2026 Annual Report. The Annual
Report provides an overview of the District and its organization, a summary of past District
accomplishments, including actions and activities undertaken in 2025, and lays out the
District’s planned priorities, resources and investments for 2026. The Annual Report reflects
the priorities established by the APCO under the direction of the Board, and among other
things, is intended to assist in the management and assignment(s) of the resource allocations
for the fiscal year and to enhance transparency in the level of service the District provides to
County residents. Progress towards accomplishment of many of the planned priorities has
been excellent, including new initiatives for greatly expanded incentive funding opportunities,
greater community engagement on local emission issues, enhanced information technology
implementation efforts, and the long-term financial stability of the District. These
accomplishments are primarily due to the high quality of the District employees, both
permanent and extra help, as well as our various contractors who assist in a variety of technical
and legal support activities.

Page 42 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 6
August 13, 2026
Page 2 of 2

Fiscal Impact: The APCO/District Director’s salary and benefits are included in the District’s
annual budget.
Recommendation: It is recommended that your Board conduct the performance evaluation of the
APCO/Director of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District.
Attachments:

#1: APCO Evaluation Form
#2: Placer County Air Pollution Control District January 2026 Annual Report

Page 43 of 109

ATTACHMENT # 1
SUBJECT:

APCO Evaluation Form

Page 44 of 109

Performance Evaluation for Erik White, APCO
ent
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COMMUNICATIONS
Clearly states staff positions during Board meetings
Keeps Board Members informed of his and District activities
Responds to communications in a timely manner
Provides concise, clean and sound advice

DECISION MAKING
Effectively defends Board positions
Considers the needs of all Board Members
Accepts responsibility for decisions
Protects the Air Pollution Control District interests

BUDGET
Keeps the Air Pollution Control District within budget
Implements budget saving measures
Ensures the long-term financial stability of the District

PERSONNEL
Effectively delegates tasks and responsibilities
Monitors staff for their effectiveness
Maintains good relationships with Board Members

RESOURCE ALLOCATION AND PLANNING
Develops and implements plans to achieve District goals and objectives
Establishes cooperative Agreements with governmental and private agencies
Leverages District resources to meet regulatory and operational commitments
ASSETS AND STRENGTHS:

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT:

___________________________________
PCAPCD Board of Directors (Print Name)

Erik White
Air Pollution Control Officer

Signature

Date

Page 45 of 109

ATTACHMENT #2
SUBJECT:

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
January 2026 Annual Report

Page 46 of 109

Granite

2026
ANNUAL REPORT

Historic Colfax

Cover Photo courtesy of Travis A. Berry

Page 47 of 109

Table of Contents

FULFILLING OUR MISSION ........................................................................................................................... 5
PLACER AIR DISTRICT’S ROLE IN REDUCING AIR POLLUTION EMISSIONS
DISTRICT ORGANIZATION & BUDGET
MANAGING AIR POLLUTION ........................................................................................................................ 6
THE PLACER COUNTY REGION IS DIVERSE
WHERE DOES AIR POLLUTION COME FROM?
OZONE AND PARTICULATE MATTER POLLUTION
IMPROVING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY ....................................................................................................... 7
ENSURING LONG TERM STABILITY / STRATEGIC PLANNING
EFFICIENCY AND MODERNIZATION
EXPANDING ONLINE INTERFACE
FOCUSING ON COMMUNITIES ..................................................................................................................... 8
COMMUNITY OUTREACH EFFORTS
AIR ART CALENDAR CONTEST
SCHOOL AIR FILTER UPGRADES
COMMUNITY AIR PROTECTION PROGRAM
RESPONDING TO CHALLENGES .................................................................................................................... 9
SUPPORTING THE CALIFORNIA ELECTRICITY GRID
GRANITE BAY RESIDENTIAL BURN DAY PILOT PROGRAM
MANAGING NATURAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................ 10
NON-ENERGY BENEFITS OF BIOMASS UTILIZATION
2022 MOSQUITO WILDFIRE - AIR POLLUTION AND PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACTS
GRANT TO SUPPORT PLACER COUNTY BIOMASS PROJECTS
PILOT AGRICULTURE CHIPPING PROGRAM
PERMITTING AND REGULATIONS............................................................................................................... 11
EFFICIENT PERMITTING
RULEMAKING ACTIVITIES
COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT ............................................................................................................ 12
ENSURING COMPLIANCE AND RESPONDING TO COMPLAINTS
ODORS FROM AGRICULTURAL FARM FERTILIZING
ODORS FROM INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS
COMPLYING WITH AIR STANDARDS........................................................................................................... 13
AIR QUALITY NETWORK ENHANCEMENT
FEDERAL OZONE STANDARD
STATE OZONE STANDARD
FEDERAL PM2.5 STANDARD
INVESTING IN CLEANER TECHNOLOGIES .................................................................................................... 14
INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
OFF-ROAD EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENTS
INFRASTRUCTURE
ON-ROAD VEHICLE REPLACEMENTS
WOODSTOVE REPLACEMENTS

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

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Table of Contents

COLLABORATING TO REDUCE EMISSIONS .................................................................................................. 15
HEX CHROME FUNDING PROGRAM
FARMER GRANTS PROGRAM
ZERO-EMISSION COMMERCIAL LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT (L&GE) INCENTIVE PROGRAM
PROMOTING FOREST HEALTH ................................................................................................................... 16
BIOMASS AND FOREST RESILIENCY
ADDRESSING WILDFIRE SMOKE ................................................................................................................. 17
HOW WILDFIRES AFFECT AIR QUALITY
WILDFIRE SMOKE IMPACTS/COMMUNITY OUTREACH
MANAGING SMOKE FROM BURNING ........................................................................................................ 18
ALLOWABLE OUTDOOR BURNING IN PLACER COUNTY
REDUCING WILDFIRE SMOKE IMPACTS THROUGH PRESCRIBED BURNING
REDUCING RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR BURNING SMOKE IMPACTS
LIMITING SMOKE FROM AGRICULTURAL BURNING OF RICE STRAW
ADVOCATING FOR IMPROVED AIR QUALITY .............................................................................................. 19
LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY ADVOCACY
REPRESENTING THE DISTRICT AT THE STATE AND FEDERAL LEVEL

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 49 of 109

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 50 of 109

Fulfilling Our Mission

MISSION
The Placer County Air Pollution Control District’s mission is to manage Placer County’s air quality in a
manner to protect and promote public health by controlling and seeking reductions of air pollutants
while recognizing and considering the economic and environmental impacts.

Placer Air District’s Role in Reducing Air Pollution Emissions
Air Quality Monitoring

There are five regulatory air monitoring stations in
Placer County (County) to measure air quality on a
24-hour basis.

Air Quality Plans
The Placer County Air Pollution Control District
(District) is responsible for preparing, adopting, and
implementing air quality plans that seek to achieve
and maintain State and federal air quality standards.

Incentives
The District provides incentives to local businesses
and agencies to reduce air pollution in our
communities.

Wildfire Smoke Impacts
The District participates in and promotes efforts to
reduce the impacts of wildfire and restore forest
resiliency, thereby reducing smoke public impacts.

Emission Inventory Development
The District develops an annual emission and toxic
inventory of all sources within Placer County and
reports this information to the California Air Resources
Board (CARB).

Regulation, Enforcement, Advocacy
The District is charged with the enforcement of local
air pollution control rules adopted by its Board of
Directors (District Board), as well as State of California
(State) and federal air quality requirements. The
District permits the control of air pollution by
businesses, regulates open burning, responds to odor
and dust complaints, and encourages the reduction
of emissions in areas that are not regulated directly.

Land Use Review
The District acts as a commenting agency under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for land
use development projects and works with local
jurisdictions to minimize air quality and climate
impacts of land use decisions. The District continually
seeks to minimize the regulatory burden on business
and industry and objectively implements and
enforces its rules to protect public health.
PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

District Organization & Budget
Board of Directors
The District Board is composed of three
County Board of Supervisors and one
elected official from each of the six
County incorporated municipalities:
Auburn, Colfax, Lincoln, Loomis, Rocklin,
Roseville. The District Board appoints the
Director/Air Pollution Control Officer
(APCO).

District Staff
The District is currently budgeted for 22 full
time employees and 4 extra help staff,
and is organized into five operating
sections: Administrative Services, Planning
and Monitoring, Grants and Incentives,
Permitting and Engineering, and
Compliance and Enforcement.

Budget
The District’s current annual budget is
approximately $33.8 million, of which
almost $22.1 million is included as clean air
incentive projects for local businesses and
agencies and mitigation projects for
developing areas. Most of the District’s
operational funding is derived from a
surcharge imposed by the Department of
Motor Vehicles (DMV), along with emission
and equipment fees assessed on
permitted facilities. The District’s budget is
organized into seven distinct Programs
that reflect the activities of the core
district operations and project-based or
pass-through incentive funding.

Page 51 of 109

Managing Air Pollution

The Placer County Region is Diverse

The District’s jurisdiction includes all of Placer County, including the six incorporated municipalities,
spanning many diverse areas. These include:
• Suburban areas of Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Loomis, and Granite Bay in the southern portion;
• Rural farming and oak lands in the northern and western portion;
• Mountain communities of Auburn, Colfax, and Foresthill on the western slope of the Sierra;
• Nearly 560,000 acres of public and private forested land (58% of Placer County) east of Auburn to
the Nevada state line; and
• The diversity of Lake Tahoe’s northern and western shores.
In 1970, Placer County’s population of 78,280 was largely rural, with agriculture, a few large businesses,
and government facilities supporting the economy. Today, Placer County is one of the fastest growing
counties in California with a population exceeding 410,000, with a diverse mix of employers such as
Bosch, Hewlett-Packard, Sutter and Kaiser Permanente hospitals, several ski resorts, a casino, Union
Pacific Railyard, and Sierra Pacific Industries lumber mill.

Where Does Air Pollution Come from?

Air pollution comes from many different “sources.” This includes
larger stationary sources, such as power plants and boilers, and
smaller sources such as dry cleaners and gas stations. Even small
emission sources, such as the use of consumer products and
paints at home, have an air quality impact. However, in Placer
County and throughout California, the vast majority of pollutant
emissions come from mobile sources such as cars, trucks, and
trains.

Ozone and Particulate Matter Pollution

Ozone (O3) is produced through the reaction in the atmosphere
of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and reactive organic gases (ROG),
also called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), with sunlight.
Occasionally, ozone concentrations exceed the federal air
quality standards during long stretches of hot stagnant days.
Emissions from Placer County sources, as well as emissions that
blow in from other parts of the State, contribute to the County’s
ozone levels.
Particulate Matter (PM) is a mixture of solid and liquid particles, and their chemical and physical
compositions vary. PM can be emitted directly or produced by secondary formation in the atmosphere
when gaseous pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide, chemically react with ammonia
and other compounds to form fine aerosol particles. PM pollution is caused mainly by human activities,
such as residential wood burning, road dust, on-road and off-road vehicles, construction, and farming
activities. PM can also be generated from natural sources such as windblown dust and wildfires.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

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Improving Operational Efficiency

Ensuring Long Term Stability / Strategic Planning

The District completed its very first 5-year Strategic Plan in August 2023. With the guidance of Integrated
Communication Strategies (ICS), in 2022 the District began a Phase 1, “stakeholder mapping” exercise
identifying key stakeholders, community groups, and influencers. Phase 2 followed and involved surveys
and interviews with these stakeholders to inform a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats
(SWOT) analysis of the District. A final Phase 3 involved development of the plan using this feedback to
identify Focus Areas and Objectives, and ultimately to define actionable Strategies the District will
implement over the subsequent three to five years. The District Board approved the Plan on
August 10, 2023. The District continues to utilize the Strategic Plan to guide its priorities into 2026. As the
implementation of the Strategic Plan continues, staff remain prepared to bring to the Board any
necessary changes that may be needed to ensure the plan represents the Board’s priorities, meets the
needs of the residents, visitors and businesses of Placer County, and aligns with all statutory and
regulatory obligations on the District.

5 Year Strategic Plan Focus Areas
Trusted Community
Partner

Innovative Problem
Solver

Solutions-Focused
Regulator

High-Performing
Organization

Efficiency and Modernization

To improve efficiency, the District maintains a Capital Facility Maintenance Plan, which includes a
schedule of required long‐term maintenance for the District office. The District did not undertake any
major capital improvements to facilities in 2025 other than the installation of new videoconferencing
equipment to facilitate large, combined meetings.

Expanding Online Interface
Citizens Access Portal

Begun in 2017 the District continued development of the Accela data management system through
2024, with a specific focus on expanding the public-facing online tool for owners/operators of stationary
sources and on the automated calculation of facility emissions from the reported annual “throughput”
usage data.
The Accela Citizens Access (ACA) portal provides an option for stationary source permit holders within
specific equipment categories to apply for Authority to Construct permits for new equipment, as well as
modifications to their existing equipment, and allows owners/operators to complete the required annual
throughput information request online. The throughput data entered in ACA is compiled and used to
calculate the individual permit and facility-wide emissions for the reporting year.
Overall, ACA provides additional flexibility to owners/operators looking to manage their permits online
and it has proven to be a streamlined solution for putting together the District’s emissions inventory. Over
the next year, the District will continue to expand the database management system to accommodate
additional equipment categories on the Authority to Construct permit applications module. Similarly,
staff plan to develop a new online-based intake form for members of the public who require a burn
permit as part of the District’s burn program. It is the District’s goal to transition to an all online permit
application process over the next several years.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 53 of 109

Focusing on Communities

Community Outreach Efforts

Seeking to enhance public outreach efforts and build relationships in our communities, the District
participated in multiple community events throughout the County in 2025. District staff and Scooter, the
Spare the Air Mascot, attended the Rocklin Community Festival, Softball Opening Day Celebration in
Roseville, Auburn’s Kidzapalooza, the Placer County Fair, Lincoln Wings & Wheels, the Roseville Mahany
Park Farmers Market, Colfax Railroad Days, the Sierra College Earth Day Festival in Rocklin, and
Downtown Roseville Tuesday Nights. The District also partnered with the Health Education Council (HEC)
to coordinate one event in Roseville and one in Auburn: a grand re-opening celebration for Weber Park
in Roseville with a neighborhood movie night; and Placer Plug-In, an event to promote and celebrate
California Clean Air Day, featuring a display of electric vehicles, question and answer sessions with
electric vehicle owners, and various informational booths and resources to reduce air pollution.

Air Art Calendar Contest

The District launched its first-ever Countywide Air Art Calendar Contest this year to engage K-12 students
in creative learning around air quality and pollution reduction. Students were invited to submit artwork
illustrating how individuals and communities can help keep our air clean, with selected pieces to be
featured in the District’s inaugural calendar. This new outreach effort supports early environment
awareness, while building stronger connection between the District, schools, and families. A digital
gallery and calendar distribution will further extend the program’s visibility and community impact.

School Air Filter Upgrades

CARB and the District continue their partnership on the Community Based Supplemental Environmental
Project (CBSEP) Program, which provides alternatives to violators of state regulatory requirements, in lieu
of paying financial penalties to CARB directly. Each project has a focus on overburdened communities
with greater air pollution impacts, such as those near a railyard, rail line or highway corridor. These funds
have been used by IQAir, the project contractor, to install and maintain air filtration systems at thirteen
schools in Placer County. In 2025, air filtration systems were installed at EV Cain in Auburn. High-efficiency
air filtration systems will be installed at additional school sites as future funds become available.

Community Air Protection Program

In 2017, AB 617 established a Community Air Protection (CAP) Program, requiring CARB and local districts
to identify communities that are overburdened by local sources of criteria pollutant and toxic emissions.
These selected communities are targeted for focused actions to improve air quality. The District is taking
actions to reduce emissions, especially in neighborhoods near Interstate 80 and the J.R. Davis Union
Pacific Rail Yard in Roseville. The District has continued its partnership with Health Education Council and
Invest Health Roseville to engage communities, both in English and Spanish, and project development
efforts. In 2025, the District worked on the emission inventory report required by the statewide Criteria
Pollutant and Toxic Emission Reporting Regulation; evaluated the upgrade of video surveillance
equipment near the Rail Yard’s maintenance shop to assist with responding to residents’ smoke and
odor complaints; assisted CARB with identifying locations for a locomotive usage surveillance project;
and reviewed data to prepare for an update of the Roseville Rail Yard’s Health Risk Assessment.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 54 of 109

Responding to Challenges

Supporting the California Electricity Grid
California faces challenges with electricity supply shortages
during periods of hot weather and high fire hazard (public
power safety shutoffs), The District continues to work closely with
local utilities and state power managers to approve additional
sources of backup power generation for essential services and
communities during these shortages.
The District has recently permitted multiple emergency power
generation projects which support reliable electricity. During
energy shortages, the emergency generation equipment is
approved for use as a primary source alternative to utility power
to relieve energy demand on the regional and statewide grid.
The District has implemented a notification and reporting
program for owners/operators of permitted emergency
generators which operate during these emergency periods to
evaluate their air quality impacts.

Roseville Energy Park Power Plant
Photo: City of Roseville; www.roseville.ca.us

State-wide efforts continue to find new sources of primary
power generation and energy storage. In the meantime, the
District will continue to engage with state power managers and
local utilities to assist with short-term solutions to California’s grid
stabilization challenges.

Commercial Emergency Generator Engine
Photo: Placer County, Erik Bergen

Granite Bay Residential Burn Day Pilot Program
In the Fall of 2025, the District started a 90-day pilot program allowing additional residential burning
opportunities in Granite Bay in response to citizen concerns that the requirements in place since 2003
are too restrictive. Those requirements limited the ability of Granite Bay residents to conduct residential
burning to the first 15 days of each month, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m.
during the month of May), provided it was a permissive burn day. The expanded ability for vegetation
fuels management through open pile burning is critical to reducing the current wildfire threat and
protecting the Granity Bay community. The pilot program aligns Granite Bay burn day and burn hour
allowances with the rest of Placer County – where burning is allowed on any declared burn day with no
hour limits. Extensive community outreach was conducted prior to starting the program. During the
pilot program we are soliciting community feedback and collecting air quality data. The pilot program
will last 3 months, ending in late January 2026. Pilot program findings and recommendations will be
reported in a town hall meeting and to the Board for further direction and approval.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

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Managing Natural Resources

Non-Energy Benefits of Biomass Utilization

The District will lead an upcoming State-funded effort to quantify the economic savings of a full range of nonenergy benefits of bioenergy projects resulting from support of forest hazardous fuels reduction thinning
treatments that reduce wildfire size and severity. Non-energy benefits include those for water supply and
quality, hydropower production, air quality, public health, fire suppression, infrastructure loss and economic
disruption, job creation, carbon stocks, recreation, and timber and ecology reserves. This will allow policy
makers to properly recognize the economic benefits from the complete range of ecosystem services
provided by bioenergy projects.

2022 Mosquito Wildfire – Air Pollution and Public Health Impacts

The 2022, Mosquito Wildfire consumed 80,000 acres of forested land in Placer County’s upper drainages of
the American River Middle Fork watershed. To understand the local impacts, the District contracted with
Spatial Informatics Group to quantify the wildfires impact on air quality and public health. Their study
determined that wildfire-produced fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and volatile organic compound emissions
were nearly ten times higher than total 2023 County-wide annual emissions, while NOx emission totaled nearly
half. Greenhouse gas emissions were equivalent to the annual emissions from over 1.2 million passenger
vehicles and similar to annual County-wide emissions. The costs of the public health impacts from the wildfire
air pollution were significant and comparable with those from fire suppression, structure loss, and economic
disruption. These findings highlight the air quality and associate economic benefits of forest fuels treatments
that reduce wildfire size and severity.

Grant to support Placer County Biomass projects

On April 10, 2025, the District’s Board approved a new grant agreement with Placer County to support
biomass related projects. The agreement provides Placer County with a portion of air quality mitigation funds
from the Bickford Ranch Specific Plan (in an amount up to $300,000) for forest treatments including chipping,
mechanical or hand thinning, masticating, broadcast/under-burning, or collecting, hauling, or transporting
biomass wastes from the forested lands within the western portion of Placer County. The agreement fulfills the
purpose of air quality mitigation funds received from land use developments and supports Placer County’s
initiatives to improve biomass utilization, forest health and resiliency, as well as reduce wildfire risk countywide.
The grant agreement continues through December 31, 2031.

Pilot Agriculture Chipping Program

On October 9, 2025, the District’s Board of Directors approved the expenditure of $100,000 in air quality
mitigation funds to the Placer Resource Conservation District (Placer RCD) to support a one-year Pilot
Agriculture Chipping Program. The pilot program will provide free chipping services to agricultural operations
throughout Placer County as an alternative to open pile burning, helping to minimize air quality impact while
supporting local farmers and ranchers in adopting more sustainable
residue-management practices. Under the program, Placer RCD’s
service team supplies the equipment and crew to chip woody
agricultural residue on-site. All chipped material remains on-site and
may be incorporated into soils to improve soil health, used as mulch
for erosion control, or otherwise managed in ways that support longterm agricultural and operational resilience. The Pilot Agriculture
Chipping Program launched on December 15, 2025. The District will
work with Placer RCD to evaluate the data collected during this oneyear pilot period to assess program performance and determine
Photo: Placer Resource Conservation District
whether the services should be continued or expanded in the future.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 56 of 109

Permitting and Regulations

11
Efficient Permitting

As authorized under federal and State law, the District continues to successfully implement its permitting
requirements for stationary sources of air pollution throughout the County. In 2025, the District issued 118
authority to construct (ATC) / permits to operate and renewed 1,567 operating permits (at 952 separate
facilities). The five largest emitting facilities in the District have major source “Title V” federal operating
permits, consistent with the requirements of the U.S. Clean Air Act. None of the District’s Title V facilities
underwent the 5-year permit renewal process in 2025. It is expected Rio Bravo Rocklin, and possibly
Gladding McBean, will renew their Title V permits in 2026.

Permitted Facilities by Location
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0

Rulemaking Activities
In 2025, the District did not adopt any new or modified rules. In 2026, the District does not plan to adopt
any new or modified rules. The US EPA is currently reviewing six rules the District amended in 2024 to
comply with measures required to attain Federal ozone national ambient air quality standards. The
District may need to make further rule amendments based on U.S. EPA findings.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

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Compliance and Enforcement

Ensuring Compliance and
Responding to Complaints

The District continued to implement
effective and fair enforcement and citizen
complaint resolution programs. In 2025, 137
complaints were investigated, with about
one-half concerning smoke from burning,
one-fourth from odor, and one-fourth from
fugitive dust and chemicals. The District
inspected 356 facilities (comprising 646
permits). Over 75 emission source tests were
observed. These activities are critical to
ensure expected emission reductions from
District programs are realized, and there is
a “level playing field” for compliance
among regulated and permitted sources.
In total, 117 violation notices were issued,
with $71,000 in penalties collected.

Type of Complaints
(July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025)
100
80
60
40
20
0

Odors from Industrial Operations

Number of Complaints
(July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025)
40
30
20
10
0

Odors from Agricultural Farm
Fertilizing
In the fall of 2025, the District received 150
complaints from West Roseville residents of odors
resulting from the application of fertilizer on
agricultural fields west of the Western Regional
Sanitary Landfill. While odors from legitimate
agricultural operations are exempt from both
state and local nuisance regulations, the District
will continue to pursue collaboration with farmers
and the County Agricultural Commissioner to
proactively inform constituents of potential
odors.

The District regularly receives complaints concerning nuisance odors from communities (including
residential and commercial developments) that encroach on the landfill, municipal wastewater and
sewage treatment plants, the Roseville Rail Yard, and other existing industrial sources. To address this,
the District has reviewed and approved odor management plans for the Western Regional Sanitary
Landfill, Pleasant Grove Wastewater Treatment Plant, Lincoln Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Rio
Bravo Rocklin Biomass Power Plant. The enforceable odor management plans establish best practices
to minimize odor impacts on residents and businesses.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 58 of 109

Complying with Air Standards

Air Quality Network Enhancement

The District operates official monitoring stations in Lincoln,
Auburn, Colfax and Tahoe City. These stations, combined
with one in Roseville, operated by CARB, measure air
quality on a 24-hour basis and provide valuable real-time
information to the public. In 2025, the District received
federal funding to upgrade all monitoring sites to enhance
the quality of air monitoring data and site operations, as
well as site shelter security. Current air quality information
can be found on the District’s website at:

2025 Air Quality Index (AQI) data
(# of days for Ozone / PM2.5)

Good: 271/ 303
Moderate: 92/ 62
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 2 / 0
Unhealthy: 0 / 0
Very Unhealthy: 0 / 0

https://www.placerair.org/1572/Air-Quality

Federal Ozone Standard

On August 21, 2025, U.S. EPA published the attainment determination for the Sacramento Federal
Nonattainment Area (SFNA) to attain the 2008 8-hour ozone standard based on the data between 2022
and 2024. After this attainment approval, the District will work with the SFNA air districts to develop the
redesignation request and maintenance plan to satisfy the attainment planning requirements for the
1979 1-hour, as well as the 1997 and 2008 8-hour average ozone standards. The SFNA air districts are now
working on the attainment demonstration for the 2015 federal 8-hour ozone standard. The SFNA
attainment demonstration relies on the reductions from statewide control strategies heavily. Due to
recent federal actions related to statewide mobile source control strategies, the expected mobile
source emission reductions will be reduced. The SFNA air districts need to re-evaluate all available
control strategies and work closely with CARB and U.S. EPA to develop a SIP revision for the SFNA to meet
the attainment deadline in 2032.
Federal Ozone
Standards

1979 1-hour
standard (0.12
ppm)

1997 8-hour standard
(0.08 ppm)

2008 8-hour standard
(0.075 ppm)

2015 8-hour
standard
(0.070 ppm)

Classification

Severe-15

Attainment Deadline

11/15/2005

6/15/2019

7/20/2025

8/4/2033

Attainment
Determination

Attainment
(10/18/2012)

Attainment
(08/21/2025)

Attainment (08/21/2025)

In Progress

State Ozone Standard

In 2024 State area designation determination, CARB kept the current “nonattainment-transitional”
classification for the Lake Tahoe Air Basin portions of Placer County due to fewer exceedances in 2022.
In October 2025, CARB proposed to change the designation for the Lake Tahoe area to “attainment”
due to ozone concentrations in the Lake Tahoe area have decreased and met the state ozone
standards. The 2025 State area designation determination is scheduled to be submitted to CARB Board
for approval in January 2026.

Federal PM2.5 Standard

CARB has submitted the state designation recommendation to U.S. EPA for the 2024 PM2.5 annual
average standard on February 6, 2025. The final area designation determination is pending the U.S.
EPA’s evaluation on CARB’s recommendation and the 2024 data. After reviewing the 2024 data, CARB
staff believe that the initial attainment designation recommendation of attainment for Placer County
should remain unchanged. It anticipates that U.S. EPA will finalize the area designation for the 2024
PM2.5 standard by February 2026.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 59 of 109

Investing in Cleaner Technologies

Incentive Programs

The District’s Clean Air Grant (CAG) Program has led to large reductions in criteria pollutant emissions
from unregulated activities and sources. The program uses several funding sources, including DMV fees,
land use mitigation funds, and state and federal grants. In 2025, because of uncertainty around the
continued availability of federal grants the District manages, the District chose not to open the CAG
program for new project applications. Instead, the available funds will “rolled into” projects selected in
the 2026 CAG funding cycle. Since 2001, the District has invested more than $37 million in CAG projects,
reducing over 1,363 tons of NOx, ROG and PM criteria air pollutants.

Off-Road Equipment Replacements

10 off-road agricultural equipment replacement projects were completed in 2025. These projects are
expected to reduce over 30 tons of criteria pollutant emissions over the next 10 years.

Infrastructure

In 2025, two electric vehicle charging infrastructure projects were completed. These projects include a
publicly accessible station in the Auburn area, and a school bus charging station in Rocklin. Projects like
these support the voluntary deployment of zero-emission vehicles by residents, businesses and agencies
in Placer County.

On-Road Vehicle Replacements

In 2025, four on-road vehicle replacement projects were completed: two school bus replacements for
Tahoe Truckee Unified School District and Roseville Joint Union High School District, and two waste truck
replacements for the City of Roseville. These projects are expected to reduce nearly 3 tons of criteria
pollutant emissions over the next 10 years.

Woodstove Replacements

The District utilizes funds available from multiple sources to implement a countywide Woodstove
Changeout Program (Program). In late 2024, the District resumed management and administration of
the program from the El Dorado Air Quality Management District. In March of 2025, the program was relaunched with higher incentives as a point-of-sale discount from Participating Retailers.
Throughout 2025, the District has been promoting the Program and has received 71 applications and
approved 41. The remaining 30 applications were ineligible or withdrawn. The Program will remain in
effect until funds are depleted.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 60 of 109

Collaborating to Reduce Emissions

Hex Chrome Funding Program

The Hex Chrome Funding program provides funding for chrome plating
facilities to transition away from the use of hexavalent chromium (a
known carcinogen) to trivalent chromium (a safe alternative) or an
alternative that is at least as health protective. Chrome plating facilities
are located within seven air districts in California: Bay Area AQMD,
Feather River AQMD, Sacramento Metropolitan AQMD, San Diego
County APCD, San Joaquin Valley APCD, South Coast AQMD, and
Ventura County APCD.

As funding administrator, the District is collaborating with CARB and the seven air districts to create an
efficient and effective program to reduce hex chrome emissions as quickly as possible. The District
opened the program for applications on September 10, 2025. Applications will be approved on a firstcome, first-served basis, with preference for small businesses. No applications have been received yet.

FARMER Grants Program

The District is partnering with CARB to administer the Funding Agricultural
Replacement Measures for Emission Reductions (FARMER) Program for Shared
Allocation Pool (SAP) air districts. The FARMER program provides funding through
local air districts for emission reduction projects in the agricultural sector. The air
districts which contribute less than one percent of the state’s agricultural emissions
(including Placer County) share an allocation, known as the SAP.
The District has successfully administered the SAP funds for years 1-5 and is currently funding projects for
year 6. The District has recommended a total of 262 agricultural replacement projects for award within
the SAP districts. These projects are expected to reduce about 73 tons of PM, 1,213 tons of NOx, and 122
tons of ROG over their project lives.
Additionally, the District has developed a cloud‐based Reporting Tool (Tool) for SAP districts to efficiently
report FARMER expenditures and project information. SAP districts use the Tool to upload and submit
FARMER applications to the District and track FARMER expenditures throughout the contract. The District
uses the Tool to export the required reporting information for CARB.

Zero-Emission Commercial Lawn & Garden Equipment Incentive Program

The State Reserve Solicitation for Moyer Year 24 provided funds for
incentive programs to replace eligible existing combustion-powered
non-residential Lawn and Garden Equipment (L&GE) with cleaner
equipment in advance of the Small Off-Road Engine (SORE)
regulation implementation. The SORE regulation, adopted by CARB,
requires that manufacturers produce zero-emission equipment
beginning in 2024, with a transition to 100 percent zero-emission offroad vehicles and equipment by 2035.

The District partnered with the Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management
District to create a program administered by Yolo-Solano on the
District’s behalf to offer $306,250 to replace existing L&GE with cleaner
cordless L&GE, following CARB’s Moyer Guidelines. Eligible projects
are limited to commercial-grade, zero-emission L&GE used by
landscaping operations for public agencies, nonprofit organizations,
and schools. Prior to program launch, District staff coordinated outreach to identify eligible applicants
and Placer County L&GE merchants willing to sign up as approved merchants.
In 2025, vouchers were issued to Sierra Joint Community College District, North Tahoe Public Utility District,
Auburn Public Cemetery District and Yolo Community Care Continuum. In October of 2025, the eligibility
was expanded to include businesses in Placer County, and four more projects were funded, leaving a
balance of $17,574 as the Program draws to a close.
PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 61 of 109

Promoting Forest Health

Biomass and Forest Resiliency

Over half of the County’s forested land is at risk for catastrophic wildfire due to heavy fuel loads from past fire
suppression and harvesting, as well as from the recent tree mortality epidemic from drought and insect
attack—as seen with the 2022 Mosquito
Fire. For almost two decades, the District
has successfully partnered with public
and private stakeholders on policy
development, innovative projects and
implementation efforts to reduce forest
fuel loading and return our forests to a fire
resilient condition, while simultaneously
utilizing the accumulated biomass
feedstocks for energy generation,
biochar production, and other wood
products.
In the past year, the District continued to make important contributions:
• Organized and sponsored a Biomass Symposium – “Biomass and Beyond: Growing a Resilient Regional
Bioeconomy.” Held in Sacramento and co-sponsored with PCWA, Valley Vison and Clean Air Partnership.
Provided local and hands-on information for regional project developers, and attended by over 100
project developers, land managers, and state and local policy makers.
• Supported Assembly Bill 88 (Caballero), which would have required CARB to consider the value of biochar,
have CEC consider bioenergy value and CAL FIRE grantees to utilize forest biomass wastes. Unfortunately
the bill was vetoed by the Governor..
• As part of the Sacramento Valley Basinwide Air Pollution Control Council, continued to provide support
and advocacy for forest fuels management and biomass utilization, including participating in a biomass
legislative advocacy day in Sacramento.
• Led a letter campaign advocating the CPUC to extend their BioMAT small scale bioenergy program.
• Supported local forest and biomass projects through our Placer Biomass Consortium, which was formed
by the District and is comprised of the County, Placer County Water Agency, Pioneer Community Energy,
and Western Placer Waste Management Authority.
• Continued to develop, for the California Office of Climate and Land Use Innovation CALFRAME Biomass
Aggregation Hub, a pilot-project regional biomass feedstock contracting and brokering consortium.
• Participated in CARB Low Carbon Fuel Standard program development of a forest biomass pathway.
District staff will continue to identify where they can most effectively provide “value added” contributions
that fill voids in State and federal policy, while not duplicating others’ efforts. The District will lead local action
that makes a difference, influences state and federal policy, and supports critical research efforts.

Planned Value-Added Contributions
Investment in forest health
projects to mitigate GHG

Work with local organizations to
support biomass initiatives

Expand prescribed fire to
reduce wildfire risk

Work with CPUC to incentivize
bioelectricity

County Biomass
Consortium

Biomass Plant Combustion
Transition Plan

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 62 of 109

Addressing Wildfire Smoke

How Wildfires Affect Air Quality
Wildfire smoke can result in significant air quality impacts, particularly on PM2.5 and ozone
concentration measurements at air monitoring stations. Wildfire smoke can cause exceedances of the
state and federal ozone and PM2.5 standards, as measured by the District’s permanent air monitors. In
previous years, the District has prepared exceptional event analysis to CARB to demonstrate that ozone
and PM2.5 exceedances are due to wildfire smoke and should therefore be excluded from regulatory
decisions regarding the State’s ozone and PM2.5 standards. While no significant wildfire smoke events
impacted Placer County in 2025, District staff will continue to evaluate daily monitoring data to verify if
the air quality in Placer County could be impacted by any wildfire smoke occurred in 2026 wildfire
season that can cause the future nonattainment designation determination for the federal and state
ambient air quality standards.

Wildfire Smoke Impacts/Community Outreach
In partnership with the County Health Officer and Placer County Superintendent of School, the District
continues to implement wildfire smoke outreach efforts to ensure County residents receive useful
information for the coming wildfire seasons. To prepare for the coming wildfire season, the District
continues
to
update
the
District’s
“Smoke
Information”
webpage
(https://www.placerair.org/8126/Smoke) along with using the U.S. EPA’s AirNow Fire and Smoke Map
(https://fire.airnow.gov). These resources provide County residents, businesses, parents and school
administrators real-time air quality measurements and strategies to minimize health impacts from smoke.

AirNow Fire and Smoke Map
Screenshot from 9/9/2022, showing smoke impacts from Mosquito Fire

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 63 of 109

Managing Smoke from Burning

Allowable Outdoor Burning in Placer County

The California Health and Safety Code (HSC) places burning into two categories, Agricultural and NonAgricultural burning. The District’s rules were developed to facilitate burning throughout the County in
accordance with the HSC. As the County has developed, Roseville, Rocklin and Lincoln, along with high
density developments, have eliminated the use of burning as an option for vegetation management.
The District provides information to the public regarding when and where burning vegetation is allowed.
For permissive burning, detailed requirements are outlined in the District’s rules, including when a District
air quality burn permit is required.

Reducing Wildfire Smoke Impacts through Prescribed Burning

Prescribed burning continues to be one of several valuable tools used
by land managers to steward land for fire resiliency, decrease fire
hazards from excessive vegetation, and increase fire safety in and
around communities. The District continues to provide education to
homeowners, as well as public and private land managers, regarding
smoke management and air quality considerations for prescribed fire
activities such that smoke impacts can be minimized. To help with the
increasing use of prescribed burning, the District Board approved
accepting grant funds from CARB for implementing the District’s
Smoke Management Program in 2019. The District continues to
receive this funding annually to support our robust program.
Additional grant funding was available to air districts in 2025 to help
offset costs of air quality prescribed burning permitting. The Board
approved a proposal from District staff to utilize those funds to cover
permit fees for non-commercial prescribed fires, which helps support
our fire agency and land manager partners.

District staff attending a prescribed burn
in Waddle Ranch, near Truckee
Photo: Heather Selvester

Reducing Residential Outdoor Burning Smoke Impacts

The District and local fire agencies work together to provide guidance on smoke management and
safe residential outdoor burning. Where allowed, residential outdoor burning is a management tool used
to dispose of dry vegetation grown on the property of a single or two‐family residence, on an approved
Burn Day, when smoke is expected to rise and disperse. Residential outdoor burning does not require a
District air quality burn permit; however, a fire agency burn permit may be required. District staff continue
to provide education and outreach to residents about good burning practices. When performed
properly, the use of safe and controlled burning of dry vegetation can help manage vegetation to
reduce wildfire risk and meet defensible space requirements. The District also encourages the use of
alternatives to burning, including curbside green waste collection where available, composting, and
chipping. Using an alternative to burning to dispose of excess vegetation can eliminate the possibility of
creating a smoke nuisance from poor burning practices. Residents can learn more about alternatives
to burning on the District’s “Residential Green Waste Programs” webpage:
https://placerair.org/8145/Residential-Green-Waste-Programs

Limiting Smoke from Agricultural Burning of Rice Straw

Rice continues to be one of the top five crops grown in Placer County. Last season, 9,915 acres of rice
were planted in Placer County, with 525,211 acres planted Valley wide. In 1992, the Rice Straw
Reduction Act mandated a reduction in the amount of diseased rice straw that can be burned
annually. Currently, up to 25% of diseased rice straw from the previous planted season can be burned.
Air districts collaborate in the Sacramento Valley Air Basin, through the Basinwide Air Pollution Control
Council’s (BCC) adoption of the Sacramento Valley Smoke Management Program for agricultural
burning. Air districts’ staff participate in trainings and during the intensive fall burn season, collaborate
on daily conference calls with meteorologists to allow agricultural burning on days when burning is not
expected to negatively impact communities with smoke. For the Fall 2025 season in Placer County, 102
acres of rice straw stubble was burned, with no complaints received.
PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Page 64 of 109

Advocating for Improved Air Quality

Legislative and Policy Advocacy

The District will continue its legislative and regulatory
advocacy in 2026 through continued conversations with
State elected officials and state agencies. A key focus
is on advancing forest resiliency projects that will benefit
Placer County, along with reducing the risks associated
with catastrophic wildfires, as well as ensuring adequate
State funding in support of State and CARB mandates.
This will be achieved by:
• Advocating for the protection of State and federal
funding that supports the District’s core mission and
incentive programs.
• Interacting and collaborating with CARB on the
implementation of the Working Lands Section of the
approved Scoping Plan.
• Participating in the State’s Forest Resiliency Taskforce
and Joint Institute for Wood Products at the Board of
Forestry, and in particular the committees that work
on biomass utilization and prescribed fire.
• Actively participating in the California Public Utilities
Commission’s (CPUC) proceedings to change or
renew the bioMAT and BioRAM programs.
• Supporting research efforts through grants from CAL
FIRE, the Department of Conservation and the
California Energy Commission in the areas of biofuels,
methane emissions from forestry practices research,
black carbon, and new gasification technologies, by
partnering with public and private sector entities on
such grants.
• Working to ensure State initiatives (outside of the
CPUC) regarding PSPS and Energy Emergencies do
not adversely impact rural County residents who are
dependent upon portable power during such events,
nor negatively impact ongoing programs to reduce
emissions.
• Seeking sufficient funding to support state mandated
programs such as through the CAP Program.
• Investigating and supporting legislative efforts to
improve emergency service and disaster funding to
the District, including response to poor air quality
associated with wildfires.
At the federal level, the District will be monitoring
and advocating on several topics, including
standards for cleaner mobile sources, enhanced
forest resiliency funding and policies, and increased
funding to support attainment of NAAQS and
implementation of other federal mandates.

PCAPCD 2026 Annual Report

Representing the District at the
State and Federal Level

The District engages in policy discussions and
advocacy at the federal and State levels.
These assignments provide both an
influential venue for the District’s priorities to
be considered in statewide and national
policies affecting air quality and incentive
funding, as well as unique opportunities to
help shape the efforts of local jurisdictions
on
climate
throughout
the
region
adaptation policies.
Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of
Commerce’s Capitol-to-Capitol (Cap-toCap) advocacy delegation
As Co-Lead on the Wildfire Team, and
participating on the Air Quality Team, the
District’s annual participation in this event in
Washington, D.C. allows discussions with
congressional staff and federal agencies on
air quality, wildfire, and forest resiliency
topics.
National Association of Clean Air Agencies
(NACAA)
District selected to serve on the Board of
Directors, and to co-chair the Mobile Source
and Fuels Committee, which provides a
unique opportunity to engage nationally on
issues that impact air quality in Placer
County.
California Air Pollution Control Officers
Association (CAPCOA)
District continues its role as a Board Member
to engage on legislative and regulatory
issues of importance through CAPCOA.
CAPCOA is the state-wide association which
advocates on issues affecting local air
districts in California.
Cleaner Air Partnership
District is an active participant of this
regional public/private advocacy and
coordination partnership.

Page 65 of 109

Contact Info
www.placerair.org
(530) 745-2330
[email protected]
110 Maple Street
Auburn, CA 95603

Page 66 of 109

Board Agenda Item 7
Information

Agenda Date:

August 13, 2026

Prepared By:

Murat Onder, Air Pollution Control Engineer

Topic:

Permitting of New Stationary Diesel-Fired Internal Combustion Engines

Action Requested: No action is required. This is an informational item on District procedures
for permitting new stationary diesel-fired internal combustion engines.
Background: The District issues operating permits for various applications of stationary dieselfired internal combustion engines under District Rule 501, General Permit Requirements.
•

Prime: The District currently permits 17 “Prime” use diesel-fired engines. Prime engines
have established annual and quarterly operating limits, but they do not have restrictions on
when they may operate. Applications include electrical power generation, hospital cogeneration systems, wood grinders and chippers, aggregate gravel/rock grinders, and
remote ski lifts.

•

Emergency: The District currently permits 636 “Emergency” (back-up) diesel-fired
engines. Emergency engines are restricted to operation during primary electrical or gas
utility supply outages, for fire pump operations, and for limited testing and maintenance
purposes.

•

Portable: Portable engines--such as tow-behind generators or air compressors or chippers,
and on-board auxiliary engines used on vacuum trucks-- require permits with the District
or, for certain temporary, non-stationary applications, registration through the California
Portable Equipment Registration Program (PERP).

•

Exempt: Engines under 50 brake horsepower (bhp) are exempt from District permitting
requirements (Rule 501, Section 301). Mobile engines (engine that propel or provides
motive power to a vehicle, such as automobiles, trucks, buses, locomotives, vessels, and
aircraft) are regulated by the State of California or the U.S. EPA, rather than the District.

Diesel engines emit a variety of air pollutants including nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide
(CO), volatile organic compounds (VOC) including acrolein, aldehydes, and benzene, semivolatile organics including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, fine particulate (diesel particulate
matter (DPM)), and inorganics from trace levels of sulfur, chlorine, and toxic metals contained in
the diesel fuel.

Page 67 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 2 of 12
Air pollutant emissions are limited through achieving efficient combustion by maintaining
sufficient temperature, turbulence and mixing of air and diesel fuel. NOx control can include use
of flue gas recirculation and selective catalytic reduction (SCR). DPM can be controlled with the
use of DPM filters. California diesel fuel content of sulfur, chlorine, and trace metals is strictly
limited.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and California Air Resources Board
(CARB) establish diesel-fired internal combustion engine emissions standards under a “Tier”
certification classification system. The Tier emission standards are compared in Table 1. Tier 4
Final (4F) is the strictest emissions standard and cleanest-burning engines currently available,
based on the use of DPM filters and SCR for DPM and NOx control, respectively. The older Tier
3 standard is based on use of flue gas recirculation. Tier 1 was the original standard, starting in
1996.
New Source Review
The District reviews, approves, and issues permits under District Rule 502, New Source Review.
This includes requirements for use of Best Available Control Technology (BACT) and, in some
instances, securing Emission Reduction Credits (ERCs).
Best Available Control Technology
BACT is required when the engine’s potential to emit exceeds pollution levels shown in Table 2
(Rule 502, Section 302). BACT is determined as the most stringent emission level:
•
•
•

Achieved in practice for similar diesel engines; or
Included in an EPA approved State Implementation Plan; or
Cost effective and technologically feasible for similar source types.

For Prime applications, BACT for NOx is required for all but the smallest engines, as shown in
Figure 1. Currently, BACT for NOx for Prime engines requires meeting Tier 4F certification
standards, which are the most current, most stringent (lowest), emissions standards, shown in Table
3.
For Emergency applications, as for Prime engines, BACT for NOx is required for all but the
smallest engines. Currently, BACT for Emergency applications is meeting the State ATCM for
Emergency diesel-fired engines, shown in Table 3. This typically requires the use of Tier 3
certified engines. For larger engines, Tier 2 engines can also meet the ATCM Emergency dieselfired engine standards. The District does not currently require Tier 4F as BACT for emergency
applications (with the possible exception being for new Data Centers) based on the following
evaluation:
•

Achieved in Practice: Tier 3 technology is fully demonstrated and achieved in practice for
Emergency standby use across California Air Districts. Almost all Districts consider Tier

Page 68 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 3 of 12
3 as BACT. Only select air districts (Bay Area, Ventura. Sacramento, and San Joaquin)
have recently established Tier 4F requirements for specific emergency categories.
•

SIP Approval: Tier 4F engines Emergency standby requirements have not been
incorporated into approved State Implementation Plans.

•

Cost-Effectiveness: For NOx, Tier 3 engines are cost effective relative to older Tier 1 and
2 engines. Conversely, for emergency standby service applications, Tier 4F engines are not
cost-effective compared with Tier 3 because typically these engines have low annual
operating hours (limited allowable hours for testing/maintenance schedules and excellent
reliability of the local electricity grid) which both result in small emissions reductions.

Emission Reduction Credits
ERCs are required when stationary source wide potential to emit levels exceed thresholds shown
in Table 2. ERCs, usually in the difference between potential to emit and the threshold, must be
purchased and retired. ERCs are not required for Emergency applications. As shown in Figure 2,
ERCs may be required for NOx for engines larger than 2000 brake horsepower (bhp), and those
needing significant operating hours.
Federal, State, and Local Prohibitory Rules
New and newly installed engines must meet applicable Federal, State, and local prohibitory rules,
including:
•

Federal New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) (U.S. EPA, NSPSs for Stationary
Compression Ignition Engines, 40 CFR Part 60 Subpart IIII). Emissions standards for
Prime and Emergency applications are shown in Table 3.

•

Federal air toxics standards (U.S. EPA, National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air
Pollutants for Stationary Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines, 40 CFR Part 63
Subpart ZZZZ). Requires compliance with the U.S. EPA NSPSs of 40 CFR Part 60 Subpart
IIII.

•

California Air Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) (California Code of Regulations, Title 17,
Section 93115, ATCM for Stationary Compression Ignition Engines). Emissions standards
for Prime and Emergency engines are shown in Table 3. Emergency engines are limited to
20-50 hour/yr for maintenance and testing purposes, depending on baseline emissions and
site risk constraints.

•

District Rule 242, Stationary Internal Combustion Engines. Emission standards for Prime
engines are shown in Table 3. Emergency engines are exempt.

•

District Rule 201, Opacity. Engine exhaust must not exceed 20% opacity (Ringelmann 1).

Page 69 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 4 of 12
•

District Rule 205, Nuisance. Engine exhaust cannot cause a public nuisance.

Air Toxics Health Risk Assessment
New engines (as well as all existing engines) must meet air toxics health risk requirements of
California AB2588 “Air Toxics Hot Spots Information and Assessment Act of 1987.” District
implementation requires the increase of cancer risk to the maximally exposed offsite person to be
less than 10 in one million, and a non-cancer increase Hazard Index (HI) be less than 1.0; and use
of toxics BACT when cancer risk is greater than 1 in one million or HI is greater than 1.0.
A “Prioritization” procedure is initially performed. This screening method uses healthconservative non-site-specific assumptions on air dispersion, meteorology, and public exposure
locations. Compliance with the health risk threshold can be demonstrated for most desired engine
proposals with the prioritization method.
For projects with large engines, high operating hours, and/or closely located to sensitive public
receptors, a more complex and site-specific health risk assessment may be required. Figure 3
shows results of a site-specific health risk assessment, for 3 new emergency diesel-fired generator
engines (1,490 bhp rating each) in PG&E Colfax’s Microgridin the case where the prioritization
score was higher than allowable thresholds, and the more detailed site-specific health risk
assessment was able to demonstrate compliance. Figure 3(a) shows Residential Cancer Risk
isopleths. The maximum exposed resident has a risk of 3.1 in one million, meeting the limit of 10
in one million. Figures 3(b) through (d) show Worker Cancer, Residential Chronic, and Worker
Chronic risk, respectively.
California Environmental Quality Act
Requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act must be satisfied. Most engine projects
can qualify for a Statutory Exemption of 17 CCR §15268 because the project is “ministerial” where
the District has an existing process and permit template and there is no discretion on the part of
the District when approving / disapproving the project. Engine projects can also qualify as exempt
under a Class 8 Categorical Exemption of 17 CCR §15354 because the issuance of an air quality
permit is meant to ensure the protection of the environment through a procedural regulatory
process. Some special projects with significant air pollutant emissions (large engines desiring high
operating hours) may require a comprehensive environmental impact review, negative declaration,
or mitigated negative declaration.
Discussion: The ability to permit new diesel-fired engines is strongly impacted by the requirement
to comply with: (1) the use of Best Available Control Technology, (2) air toxics risk, and (3) need
for Emission Reduction Credits for larger projects. Looking ahead, each of these is continually
evolving:
•

BACT: For Prime use, BACT will eventually move toward even more stringent new
engine standards (expected to be known as Tier 5). Future Tier 5 standards, with NOx and
DPM limits significantly lower than Tier 4F, are currently in the development stage at the

Page 70 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 5 of 12
state level. BACT may also eventually require use of very low or zero emission alternatives
such as fuel cells and batteries.
For Emergency use, BACT will inevitably progress toward Tier 4F for all engine sizes and
application types.
•

Air toxics risk assessment: Requirements will change with scientific research
advancements in chemical species toxicity, sensitive receptor breathing rates, multipathway exposure scenarios.

•

ERCs: ERCs are currently in short supply and expensive. It is likely the future market
will tighten even further.

Fiscal Impact: The above discussion is to provide information on how the District permits dieselfired internal combustion engines. All related funding and expenditures for the District permitting
program are included in the FY 2026-27 budget.
Recommendation: No action is required. This is an informational item.

Table 1. Tier Emission Standards for Diesel-Fired Engines

Engine Rating
Tier 1
Tier 2

Tier 3

Tier 4 Final

50 ≤ bhp < 175
175 ≤ bhp
50 ≤ bhp < 100
100 ≤ bhp < 175
175 ≤ bhp < 300
300 ≤ bhp
75 ≤ bhp < 100
100 ≤ bhp < 175
175 ≤ bhp < 750
bhp > 750
50 ≤ bhp < 75
75 ≤ bhp < 175
175 ≤ bhp < 750
bhp > 750

Emission Factor (g/bhp-hr)
CO
NOx PM10 VOCs
-6.90
--8.50
6.90
0.40
1.00
3.70
5.32
0.30
0.28
3.70
4.66
0.22
0.25
2.60
4.66
0.15
0.25
4.56
0.15
0.24
2.60
3.70
3.33
0.30
0.18
3.70
2.85
0.22
0.15
2.60
2.85
0.15
0.15
0.09
0.14
-2.66
3.70
3.33
0.02
0.18
3.70
0.30
0.01
0.14
2.60
0.30
0.01
0.14
0.50
0.02
0.14
2.60

Table 2. District Rule 502 Permitting Thresholds

Page 71 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 6 of 12
Air Pollutant

NOx
VOC
PM
SOx
CO

Best Available
Emission Reduction
Control Technology
Credit (ERC)
(BACT) Thresholds
Thresholds
lb/day
tons/yr
10
10.0
10
10.0
80
15.0
80
27.5
550
99.0

Table 3. Emission Standards for Diesel-Fired Engines
Rule
EPA NSPS, Prime Engines -- Tier 4
50-75 hp
75-175 hp
175-750 hp
>750 hp
EPA NSPS, Emergency Engines, Tier 3
50-100 hp
100-175 hp
175-750 hp
> 750 hp
CA ATCM, Prime Engines
50-75 hp
75-700 hp
> 700 hp
CA ATCM Emergency Engines
50-100 hp
100-175 hp
175-750 hp
> 750 hp
District Rule 242, Prime Engines

g/bhp-hr
VOC
NOx

3.7
3.7
2.6
2.6

0.18
0.14
0.14
0.14

3.5
0.3
0.3
0.5

0.02
0.01
0.01
0.02

3.8
3.8
2.6
2.6

0.14
0.14
0.14
0.14

3.5
3.0
3.0
4.8

0.30
0.20
0.15
0.15

3.7
2.6
2.6

0.14
0.14
0.14

3.5
0.3
0.5

0.02
0.01
0.02

3.7
3.7
2.6
2.6
13.5

0.14
0.14
0.14
0.14
NA

3.5
3.0
3.0
4.8
6.7

0.15
0.15
0.15
0.15
NA

Page 72 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 7 of 12

Figure 1. NOx emissions for Tier 3 vs Tier 4F engine (Emissions projections assume 24 hours of
operation per day)

Page 73 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 8 of 12

Figure 2. NOx emissions (yearly) for Tier 4F engine

Figure 3. Example site-specific Health Risk Assessment for permitting of diesel engine generators
in Colfax
(a) Residential Cancer Risk

Page 74 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 9 of 12

Maximally Exposed Individual Resident

Diesel Engine Generators

(b) Worker Cancer Risk

Page 75 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 10 of 12

Maximally Exposed Individual Worker

Diesel Engine Generators

Page 76 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 11 of 12

Maximally Exposed Individual Resident

Diesel Engine Generators

(d) Worker Chronic Risk

Page 77 of 109

PCAPCD Board Agenda Item 7
August 13, 2026
Page 12 of 12

Maximally Exposed Individual Worker

Diesel Engine Generators

Page 78 of 109

Final Budget
Fiscal Year
2026-27

Page 79 of 109

PLACER COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL
DISTRICT
PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2026-27
Erik C. White
Air Pollution Control Officer

Table of Contents

Page(s)
District Overview
Directors and Staff ...................................................................................................... 1
Organization Chart ...................................................................................................... 2
District Mission Statement ..................................................................................... ....3 - 4
Section Goals and Objectives ..................................................................................... 5 - 19
Planning & Monitoring Section
Grants & Incentives Section
Permitting & Engineering Section
Compliance & Enforcement Section
Administrative Services Section
FY 2026-27 Final Budget Summary.............................................................................20 - 26
FY 2026-27 Air Pollution Control District Fund 32400 Final Budget.... ................... 27
FY 2026-27 FARMER Fund 32404 Budget.................. ............................................... 28
FY 2026-27 Final Budget Revenues Pie Chart……….................................................29
FY 2026-27 Final Budget Appropriations Pie Chart………......................................30

Page 80 of 109

110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 ∙ (530) 745-2330 ∙ Fax (530) 745-2373 ∙ www.placerair.org
Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

PLACER COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT

GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Shanti Landon
Anthony De Mattei
Suzanne Jones
Rachel Radell-Harris - Chair
Caroline McCully – Vice Chair
Richard Pearl
David Ring
Greg Janda
Karen Alvord

Placer County Supervisor – District II
Placer County Supervisor - District III
Placer County Supervisor – District IV
City of Auburn Councilmember
City of Colfax Councilmember
City of Lincoln Mayor
Town of Loomis Mayor
City of Rocklin Mayor
City of Roseville Councilmember

DISTRICT STAFF:

POSITION

Erik White
Adam Baughman
Kristen Monroe
Stacey Francis
Russell Moore
Shannon Harroun
Gina Ledesma-Reyes
Daniel Hayes
Bruce Springsteen
Heather Selvester
Vacant
Arthur Soma
Vacant
Zach Lee
Phillip Montoya
Murat Onder
Yu-Shuo Chang
Vacant
Emily Moore
David Buck
Lauren Moore
Molly Johnson
Vacant
Vacant

Air Pollution Control Officer
Director, Air Pollution Control District
Deputy Air Pollution Control Officer
Deputy Director, Air Pollution Control District
Administrative & Fiscal Officer
Administrative Services Manager & Fiscal Officer
Accounting Technician
Administrative Services
Information Technology Technician II
Administrative Services
Staff Services Analyst II
Administrative Services
Administrative Technician & Board Clerk Administrative Services
Accountant I
Administrative Services
Principal Air Pollution Control Engineer
Permitting Division Manager
Air Quality Specialist – Senior
Compliance & Enforcement
Air Quality Specialist I/II
Compliance & Enforcement
Air Quality Specialist I
Compliance & Enforcement
Air Pollution Control Engineer - Senior
Permitting & Engineering
Administrative Technician
Permitting & Engineering
Air Pollution Control Engineer – Associate Permitting & Engineering
Air Pollution Control Engineer - Assistant Permitting & Engineering
Supervising Planner
Planning Division Manager
Planner – Senior
Planning & Monitoring
Planner - Assistant
Planning & Monitoring
Air Quality Specialist II
Planning & Monitoring
Air Quality Specialist – Senior
Grants & Incentives
Air Quality Specialist II
Grants & Incentives
Air Quality Specialist I/II
Grants & Incentives
Air Quality Specialist I/II
Grants & Incentives

EXTRA HELP:

Tim Murphy
Ann Hobbs
Vacant

SECTION

Air Quality Specialist I
Planner – Associate
Student Intern

Compliance & Enforcement
Planning & Monitoring
Permitting & Engineering

Page 1

Page 81 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Organization Chart

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Director of Air Pollution Control
Air Pollution Control Officer
Erik White
Legal Counsel
County Counsel and
Contracted Legal Services

Deputy Air Pollution Control Officer
Adam Baughman

Admin Division Manager

Planning Division Manager

Permitting Division Manager

Kristen Monroe
Administrative & Fiscal Officer II

Yu-shuo Chang
Supervising Planner

Bruce Springsteen
Principal APC Engineer

Planning & Monitoring
Section

Grants & Incentives
Section

Permitting & Enginnering
Section

Contracts/Grants Analyst

Planning Supervisor

Grants & Incentives
Supervisor

Permitting Supervisor

Compliance &
Enforcement Supervisor

Shannon Harroun
Staff Services Analyst II

Vacant
Senior Planner

Lauren Moore
Sr. Air Quality Specialist

Vacant
Senior APC Engineer

Heather Selvester
Sr. Air Quality Specialist

Administrative Services
Section

Clerk of the Board**
Administrative Services
Gina Ledesma-Reyes
Administrative Technician

Land Use Planning / Air
Quality Planning /
Emission Inventory

CAP / EPA TAG / Wood
Stove Grants
Molly Johnson
Air Quality Specialist II

Emily Moore
Assistant Planner

Accounting / Payroll /
Payables
Stacey Francis
Accounting Technician

Air Monitoring &
Building Superintendent

Moyer / FARMER /
Chrome Plating Grants

Accounting Support

David Buck
APC Specialist II

Vacant
Air Quality Specialist II

Daniel Hayes
Accountant I

Compliance & Enforcement
Section

Permit Engineer

Stationary Source
Inspections

Phillip Montoya
APC Engineer - Associate

Arthur Soma
Air Quality Specialist I

Permit Engineer

Stationary Source
Inspections

Murat Onder
APC Engineer - Assistant

Vacant
Air Quality Specialist I

Permitting Technician
Land Use / Burn
Program - Extra Help

Database Management
& IT Support
Russell Moore
IT Technician II

Grants Support

Ann Hobbs
Associate Planner

Vacant
Air Quality Specialist I

Contract Services

Zach Lee
Administrative Technician

Extra-Help
Tim Murphy
Air Quality Specialist I

Engineering Student
Intern

Contract Support
Services

Vacant
Student Intern

Spatial Informatics
Group

Alarm & Fire Monitoring
Janitorial
Landscaping
Elevator Maint.

Engineering
Extra Help

MOUs

Vacant
Extra Help

Fire Agency Mutual
Support Agreements

Contract IT Services
MootsPoint
TruePoint Solutions

ADMIN

PLANNING

** The "Clerk of the Board" function reports to the Director
Rounded Rectangle denotes
Contract, MOU, or Extra-help Support

Effective January 2026

Page 2

PERMITTING

Page 82 of 109

The Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Whatȱweȱareȱallȱabout…ȱ

ȱ
ȱ
1. Regulateȱairȱpollutantȱemissionsȱfromȱstationaryȱsourcesȱ

Ourȱvisionȱisȱtoȱ
achieveȱandȱmaintainȱ
cleanȱairȱstandardsȱ
throughoutȱPlacerȱ
Countyȱ
ȱ
ȱ
Weȱstriveȱtowardsȱthisȱ
endȱbyȱmanagingȱtheȱ
County’sȱairȱqualityȱinȱ
aȱmannerȱtoȱprotectȱandȱ
promoteȱpublicȱhealthȱ
byȱcontrollingȱandȱ
seekingȱreductionsȱofȱ
airȱpollutantsȱwhileȱ
recognizingȱandȱ
consideringȱtheȱ
economicȱandȱ
environmentalȱimpactsȱ
ȱ
ȱ
Weȱdoȱthisȱbyȱfocusingȱ
onȱnineȱspecificȱgoalsȱ
andȱapplyingȱourȱ
resourcesȱtowardȱ
accomplishingȱtheirȱ
associatedȱobjectivesȱ

a. Evaluateȱ emissions,ȱ potentialȱ emissions,ȱ andȱ establishȱ
permitȱ limitationsȱ consistentȱ withȱ Districtȱ rulesȱ andȱ
regulationsȱandȱapplicableȱairȱpollutionȱcontrolȱlawsȱ
b. Developȱandȱmaintainȱaȱvigilantȱinspectionȱprogramȱtoȱ
ensureȱcomplianceȱofȱpermittedȱtermsȱandȱconditionsȱȱ
c. Provideȱ guidanceȱ onȱ implementationȱ ofȱ rulesȱ andȱ
regulationsȱtoȱregulatedȱsourcesȱ
d. Establishȱpartnershipsȱwithȱindustryȱbyȱprovidingȱbothȱ
aȱ technicalȱ andȱ personalȱ levelȱ ofȱ serviceȱ toȱ promoteȱ
innovativeȱreductionsȱofȱemissionsȱȱ
e. Adoptȱprogressive,ȱsensible,ȱfactȬbased,ȱandȱeffectiveȱairȱ
pollutionȱcontrolȱrulesȱandȱregulationsȱasȱareȱnecessaryȱ
toȱfurtherȱtheȱgoalsȱofȱtheȱDistrictȱandȱtoȱmeetȱstateȱandȱ
federalȱmandatesȱ
ȱ

2. Seekȱ quantitativeȱ reductionsȱ inȱ amountsȱ ofȱ airȱ pollutantsȱ
beingȱreleasedȱwithinȱtheȱCountyȱ
a. Identifyȱandȱregulateȱnewȱsourcesȱofȱemissionsȱȱ
b. Alleviateȱtoxicȱandȱnuisanceȱemissionȱimpactsȱuponȱtheȱ
publicȱ
c. Provideȱeconomicȱincentivesȱforȱemissionȱreductionsȱ
d. Deterȱ emissionȱ violationsȱ throughȱ theȱ enforcementȱ ofȱ
Districtȱrules,ȱandȱairȱpollutionȱcontrolȱlawsȱ
e. Increaseȱresourcesȱappliedȱtoȱmitigationȱmeasuresȱ
f. Provideȱ publicȱ educationȱ aboutȱ sources,ȱ effects,ȱ andȱ
methodsȱofȱreductionȱ
g. Modifyȱand/orȱincorporateȱnewȱrulesȱandȱregulationsȱasȱ
appropriateȱtoȱobtainȱreductionsȱsuitedȱforȱtheȱCountyȱ
h. Seekȱ Greenhouseȱ Gasȱ (GHG)ȱ emissionȱ reductionsȱ inȱ
keepingȱwithȱstateȱandȱfederalȱlawsȱandȱregulations,ȱandȱ
Districtȱpoliciesȱ
ȱ

3. Respondȱ toȱ andȱ investigateȱ nonȬcompliantȱ eventsȱ andȱ
sourcesȱofȱemissionsȱinȱanȱefficientȱmannerȱandȱimpartiallyȱ
upholdȱandȱenforceȱairȱpollutionȱlawsȱandȱregulationsȱ
a. Initiateȱmeasuresȱtoȱallowȱsourcesȱtoȱgainȱcomplianceȱbyȱ
providingȱqualityȱserviceȱwithinȱacceptableȱlimitsȱ
b. Establishȱaȱhierarchicalȱenforcementȱsystemȱthatȱyieldsȱ
appropriateȱ sanctionsȱ forȱ theȱ violationȱ ofȱ permitȱ
conditions,ȱ rules,ȱ regulations,ȱ andȱ laws,ȱ andȱ
considering,ȱamongȱotherȱrelevantȱfactors,ȱtheȱseverity,ȱ
frequency,ȱ andȱ airȱ quantityȱ ofȱ pollutionȱ dischargedȱ toȱ
theȱatmosphereȱ
c. Partnerȱ withȱ otherȱ agenciesȱ whenȱ feasibleȱ toȱ assistȱ inȱ
fieldȱresponseȱandȱinspections/investigationsȱ
Page 3

Page 83 of 109

4. Mitigateȱeffectsȱofȱgrowthȱthroughȱqualityȱplanningȱmeasuresȱ
a. Maintainȱ andȱ enhanceȱ aȱ dataȱ andȱ informationȱ collectionȱ systemȱ regardingȱ emissionȱ
inventoryȱandȱairȱshedȱpropertiesȱthroughoutȱtheȱbasinsȱ
b. Prepareȱandȱupdateȱairȱqualityȱplansȱtoȱeffectivelyȱmaintainȱorȱachieveȱattainmentȱofȱairȱ
qualityȱstandardsȱthroughȱmeasuresȱbestȱsuitedȱforȱtheȱCountyȱ
c. Reviewȱ developmentȱ plansȱ forȱ impactsȱ onȱ airȱ qualityȱ andȱ climate,ȱ andȱ workȱ towardȱ
mitigatingȱthoseȱimpactsȱthroughȱprogramsȱthatȱreduceȱemissionsȱ
d. Developȱandȱimplementȱinitiatives,ȱandȱsupportȱlocalȱjurisdictions,ȱtoȱaddressȱtheȱgrowthȱ
ofȱtheȱCountyȱwithȱrespectȱtoȱmaintainingȱandȱimprovingȱairȱqualityȱ
ȱ

5. Poolȱresourcesȱwithȱotherȱagencies,ȱdistricts,ȱjurisdictions,ȱandȱstakeholdersȱ
a. Partnerȱ withȱ localȱ municipalitiesȱ inȱ areasȱ ofȱ mutualȱ interestȱ andȱ whereȱ mandatesȱ crossȱ
jurisdictionalȱboundariesȱ
b. Formȱ strategicȱ alliancesȱ withȱ otherȱ airȱ districts,ȱ academia,ȱ stakeholdersȱ andȱ agenciesȱ asȱ
appropriateȱtoȱdevelopȱtechnicalȱresourcesȱandȱgainȱneededȱassistanceȱ
c. Contractȱ outȱ forȱ services/programȱ managementȱ toȱ areasȱ whereȱ theȱ cost/benefitȱ ofȱ doingȱ
suchȱisȱfavorableȱ
ȱ

6. Marketȱ andȱ promoteȱ theȱ positiveȱ impactsȱ theȱ Districtȱ isȱ makingȱ onȱ theȱ airȱ qualityȱ inȱ theȱ
Countyȱ

7. Developȱ andȱ supportȱ innovativeȱ andȱ nonȬtraditionalȱ emissionȱ reductionȱ strategiesȱ andȱ
initiativesȱforȱallȱsourcesȱofȱemissionsȱ
a. Supportȱ zeroȱ emissionȱ andȱ alternativeȱ andȱ renewableȱ fuelsȱ technologies,ȱ andȱ
accompanyingȱinfrastructure,ȱincludingȱwasteȱtoȱenergyȱandȱbiomassȱtoȱenergyȱinitiatives,ȱ
asȱwellȱasȱcleanerȱburningȱfossilȱfuels.ȱ
b. LeverageȱDistrictȱandȱlocalȱfundingȱwithȱStateȱandȱFederalȱmoniesȱtoȱmaximizeȱbenefitsȱtoȱ
localȱjurisdictions.ȱ
c. SupportȱeconomicallyȱselfȬsustainingȱforestȱmanagementȱinitiativesȱtoȱrestoreȱourȱforestsȱ
toȱaȱfireȬresilientȱconditionȱwhileȱreducingȱemissionsȱfromȱprescribedȱburningȱandȱwildfiresȱ
–ȱ includingȱ hazardousȱ fuelȱ reductionȱ thinningȱ andȱ useȱ ofȱ biomassȱ wasteȱ forȱ energy,ȱ
biochar,ȱandȱwoodȱproductsȱasȱanȱalternateȱtoȱopenȱpileȱburningȱȱ
d. Assistȱinȱtheȱimplementation/fundingȱofȱTransportationȱControlȱMeasuresȱ(TCMs)ȱcalledȱ
forȱinȱAirȱQualityȱPlansȱ
ȱ

8. ImproveȱDistrictȱbusinessȱprocessesȱandȱinternalȱoperationsȱsoȱasȱtoȱprovideȱcostȱeffectiveȱandȱ
qualityȱserviceȱtoȱtheȱcitizensȱandȱindustryȱofȱPlacerȱCounty.ȱȱ
a. Continuallyȱ assessȱ theȱ abilityȱ ofȱ staff,ȱ funding,ȱ andȱ contractȱ resources,ȱ toȱ meetȱ Districtȱ
serviceȱ levelȱ priorities,ȱ satisfactionȱ ofȱ mandates,ȱ andȱ achievementȱ ofȱ missionȱ objectives,ȱ
andȱmakeȱnecessaryȱadjustments.ȱ
b. Identifyȱmeansȱtoȱstreamlineȱandȱenhanceȱbusinessȱprocessesȱtoȱachieveȱgainsȱinȱefficiencyȱ
andȱ effectiveness,ȱ reduceȱ costsȱ andȱ alignȱ costsȱ withȱ revenueȱ streams,ȱ andȱ improveȱ
customerȱserviceȱandȱpublicȱtransparency.ȱ
ȱ

9. Provideȱaȱfinanciallyȱstable,ȱsafe,ȱandȱpositiveȱworkingȱenvironmentȱforȱDistrictȱstaff,ȱwhereȱ
staffȱareȱhealthyȱandȱmotivated,ȱwellȱpreparedȱandȱqualified,ȱrespectedȱbyȱtheirȱpeers,ȱwithȱ
highȱethicalȱandȱworkȱstandards,ȱandȱwhereȱstaffȱareȱencouragedȱtoȱutilizeȱtheirȱfullȱpotential.ȱ

KWdzd,/^dZ/dKZ&ZhZzϵ͕ϮϬϭϳ

Page 4

Page 84 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
Mission
Goal/Objective

Planning & Monitoring Section:
The Planning & Monitoring Section is responsible for air quality planning
required to guide local emission reduction efforts and to demonstrate that these
efforts satisfy state and federal planning requirements. The Section also
conducts assessments of land use projects with respect to their impact on air
quality. Air quality planning efforts, and the determination of whether state and
local emission control measures have been successful, are verified by the air
monitors that measure ambient air quality in the District. The Section is also
responsible for preparing inventories of emissions in the District, regulating
open burning and burning from wood-fired appliances, and managing the Clean
Air Grant and other incentive programs. Specific activities of the Section
include:
• Working with federal, state, and other local agencies to develop regional
planning documents to attain and maintain compliance with state and federal
ambient air quality standards.
• Ensuring compliance with federal conformity requirements.
• Developing emission inventories for air quality planning purposes and new
or amended rules and regulations for District adoption.
•
•
•
•
•

•
•
•
•
•

Assisting in the development of land use plans, such as specific and general
plans.
Reviewing land use projects and environmental documents submitted by
lead agencies, in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
Preparing environmental documents when the District is the lead agency.
Inspecting new development projects to verify mitigation measures were
implemented.
Administering grant funding from the federal, state, and local programs
including Section 103 PM2.5 Network Operation Program, AB 197
Emission Inventory, Community Air Protection Program, and District’s
Land Use Offsite Mitigation Program.
Providing public outreach and information.
Coordinate with the other air districts in Sacramento Region for the Spare
the Air Program
Operating air quality monitoring equipment at five (5) stations including one
to acquire data for short-term research purposes.
Submitting air monitoring data to the State and Federal governments.
Analyzing air monitoring data to identify poor air quality episodes and
recommend health alerts when warranted, to identify violations of air quality
standards, and to evaluate trends for decision making with regard to air
quality plans.

Page 5

4(b), 4(d), 5a),
5(b)
7(b)
1(e), 2(a), 2(b),
2(g), 4(a), 4(b),
4(c)
4(c), 5(a), 7(b)
4(c), 5(a), 7(b)
2(a), 2(g), 4(c)
1(b), 4(c), 4(d)
1(d), 2(c), 2(e),
4(c), 4(d), 5(a),

1(c), 2(f), 6
2(f), 6
4(a), 4(b), 4(d)
4(a), 4(b), 4(d)
4(a), 4(b), 4(d)

Page 85 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
•

•

Support the District burn program to minimize smoke impacts, including
residential burning, rice burning, and forest management prescribed
burning–through smoke management plan approval, permitting, burn project
authorization, and burn day declarations.
Collaborating with various emergency response agencies to deliver effective
air quality data for the public and decision makers when an incident such as
wildfire occurs and impacts the air quality within Placer County.

Section tasks and projects to be advanced in the 2026-2027 fiscal year are:
Air Quality Plans for Federal Standards: Staff continues working with
United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and California
Air Resources Board (CARB) and other local air districts in the Sacramento
Federal Nonattainment Area (SFNA) to: 1) accomplish the necessary
redesignation request and maintenance plan for the 1979 federal 1-hour
ozone standard, as well as 1997 and 2008 8-hour ozone standard, 2) develop
the State Implementation Plan Revision for the 2015 8-hour ozone standard
due to the federal actions on California mobile source strategies, and 3) work
with CARB and U.S. EPA to finalize the area designation determination for
the 2024 federal PM2.5 annual average standard.
 AB197 Emission Inventory District Grant Program: CARB continues
providing the District grant funding in FY 2026-27 to conduct a quality
assurance review of data being uploaded into the California Emission
Inventory Development and Reporting System (CEIDARS) database. The
grant requires the District to review, update, and submit quality assured
criteria and toxic pollutant emissions data meeting the statewide Criteria and
Toxic Emission Reporting Regulation (CTR) requirements for calendar year
2025. The timeline to implement the project and submit a final report to
CARB is at the end of May 2027.
 CEQA Review Program: Staff proposed to update the District’s CEQA
Review Policy and Handbook in FY 2026-27. The purpose for the CEQA
Review Policy update is to address how the off-site mitigation fee is
determined during the project planning period if the land use developer
chooses to apply off-site mitigation measures to offset the project’s related
potential emissions. The CEQA Handbook update is to address recent
legislation and courts’ decisions regarding the CEQA cases, available
modeling tools for emission determination, and the list of feasible mitigation
measures. The purpose for these updates is to continue providing a useful
resources for local jurisdictions as well as project’s developers and
consultants to determine the land use project’s related air quality impacts.
 Land Use Mitigation Funds: Staff continue working with local jurisdictions
and public agencies to explore the feasible projects that can generate
emission reductions to offset the potential air quality impacts from new land
use developments in Placer County.


Page 6

1(a), 1(b), 2(f),
5(b)
1(a), 1(c), 2(f),
4(a), 6

1(a), 1(e), 2(f),
2(g), 4(a), 4(b),
4(d), 5(b)

1(e), 2(a), 2(b),
2(g), 4(a), 4(b),
4(c)

1(b), 2(a), 2(g),
4(c), 4(d), 5(a),
7(b)

4(c), 4(d), 7(b)

Page 86 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals




Community Air Protection Program Implementation Grant: AB 617
established a Community Air Protection Program (CAPP) requiring local air
districts, in conjunction with CARB and local communities, to identify
communities which may be significantly impacted by local sources of criteria
pollutants and toxic emissions. The Legislature appropriates funds, though
the State annual budget cycle, to local air districts for CAPP implementation.
The funds can be used to cover local air districts’ activities with specific
tasks, including identifying locations for monitoring, deploying community
air monitoring systems or fence-line monitoring, reporting facility
emissions, developing a community emission reduction program,
establishing requirements and adopting schedules for best available retrofit
control technology (BART) implementation, and conducting local
community meetings or public outreach. The District is allocated to receive
the amount of $93,285 to cover the tasks for CAPP implementation in
FY 2026-27.
Air Monitoring Network Operation: Staff continues upgrading the District’s
air monitoring network in FY 2026-27. The proposed upgrade includes the
installation of smart AC units and surveillance cameras to enhance the site
environmental control and security. The District applied and received federal
air monitoring funding in January 2025. The is a five-year grant award and
the funding is used to upgrade instruments for air monitoring and enhance
station security. The instrument has been purchased and installed for on-site
ozone analyzer calibration in FY 2025-26. These network upgrades will
enhance the District’s ability to ensure data collection, data handling
procedures, data quality assurance/quality control and station security and
safety.
Spare the Air Program: Staff continue working with Prosio
Communications, the Spare the Air (STA) contractor, to promote the Spare
the Air program in Placer County. It includes the coordination of public
events participation, promotional items preparation and educational
materials development, local partnership development, and program’s
mascot “Scooter” schedules for community event participation.

Page 7

1(c), 1(e), 2(a),
2(b), 2(f), 2(g),
4(a), 4(b), 4(c),
6

4(a), 4(b), 4(d)

2(f), 6

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Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
Grants & Incentives Section:
The Grants and Incentives Section is responsible for managing a range of grant
and incentive programs that support businesses, organizations, public agencies,
and Placer County residents in reducing air pollutant emissions. These programs
are funded through a combination of federal, state, and local sources and include
both locally focused as well as statewide programs administered on behalf of the
other air districts. The funding is administered in accordance with the related
guidance to ensure the funding is appropriately spent. Specific activities of the
Section include:
• Administering the District’s Clean Air Grant (CAG) program to reduce
criteria pollutant emissions. The CAG funding sources consist of the federal,
state, and local programs to fund projects reducing reactive organic gases
(ROG), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM) from heavyduty diesel mobile sources while encouraging the use of alternative fuel
technologies and supporting infrastructure.
• Administering the statewide incentive programs on behalf of CARB and
other air districts to facilitate the program participation and streamline the
administrative process for CARB and participated air districts.
• Coordinating the incentive programs administered by the other air districts
or regional agencies to benefit the residents, businesses, organizations, and
public agencies in Placer County.
• Exploring possible grant funding opportunities from the state and federal
agencies for Placer County residents and business.
•

Conducting the public outreach program to promote the grant and incentive
programs that are eligible for the Placer residents, public agencies, and
businesses.

Mission
Goal/Objective

2(c), 2(f), 5(a),
5(c), 6, 7(a),
7(b), 8(b)

5(a), 7(a), 7(b),
8(b)
2(c), 2(f), 5(a),
7(a), 7(b)
2(c), 2(f), 5(a),
7(a), 7(b)
2(f), 6,

Section tasks and projects to be advanced in the 2026-2027 fiscal year are:
Clean Air Grant Program: Staff continue administering the District’s Clean
Air Grant (CAG) program in FY 2026-27. The CAG program is the District’s
primary annual grant program funded by the federal, state, and local
agencies. The available funding sources for FY 2026-27 include U.S. EPA
Targeted Airshed Grant (TAG) and CARB’s Carl Moyer Program (Moyer
Program), Community Air Protection Incentive Program (CAP Incentive),
Climate Heat Impact Response Program (CHIRP), as well as DMV
surcharge (AB923). Each incentive program has its own specific
requirement requirements for eligible project categories and costeffectiveness limitation to meet the goals of funding sources.
 Woodstove Changeout Incentive Program: Staff continues managing the
woodstove changeout program in FY 2026-27. The major funding sources
are from U.S. EPA TAG funding and CARB’s Woodsmoke Reduction
Program. The TAG funding is limited to offer the incentives to the heat pump


Page 8

2(c), 2(f), 5(a),
5(c), 6, 7(a),
7(b), 8(b)

Page 88 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
application in Sacramento Valley Air Basin (SVAB) portions of the District
and the CARB’s funding is applied to offer incentives countywide. The
standard incentive is $2,500 for a woodstove replacement and $5,000 for an
electric heat pump replacement. The enhanced incentive for low-income
eligible applicants is $5,000 for a woodstove replacement and $10,000 for
an electric heat pump replacement.
 Community Based Supplemental Environmental Project Program: Staff
continue working on the Community Based Supplemental Environmental
Project (CBSEP) program in FY 2026-27. The program is established to
periodically receive Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP) funds from
CARB’s settlement of enforcement actions. The funds are used to provide
installation and maintenance of high-performance air filtration systems in
schools located in Placer’s local communities near major transportation
corridors, including rail. Fifteen (15) schools in Placer County have been
installed with the air filtration system through the program. Staff will work
on at least one additional school to use the remaining funds of approximately
$200,000
 Commercial Lawn and Garden Equipment Electrification Program: Staff
continue coordinating with the Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management
District (YSAQMD) to promote the commercial lawn and garden equipment
electrification program. YSAQMD administers this replacement program on
behalf of the District to provide vouchers to eligible public agencies, school
districts, and parks and recreation districts that conduct commercial-scale
landscaping work in Placer County to reduce the cost of replacing existing
gas or diesel-powered lawn and garden equipment with battery-operated
zero-emission lawn and garden equipment. Staff anticipates expending the
rest of funding for Placer County applications in FY 2026-27.




Driving Clean Assistance Program: Staff works to promote the Driving
Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) to Placer residents. In early 2025, the
Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC) announced its
DCAP expanded to Placer County. This innovative program helps lowincome Californians purchase or lease reliable clean air vehicles and join
the fight against climate change. The program provides funding and an
array of financial support services including counseling, assistance in
accessing low-interest loans and grants, financial education, budget
planning, and personalized case management. DCAP continues accepting
applications in FY 2026-27.
Funding Agricultural Replacement Measures for Emission Reduction
Program: the Funding Agricultural Replacement Measures for Emission
Reductions (FARMER) Program is a statewide incentive program that
reduces criteria pollutant emissions from the agricultural sector. The
District serves as the administrator, on behalf of CARB, to work with the
air districts within the Shared Allocation Pool (SAP) to solicit and review
project applications, recommend projects for funding, transfer funds to
participating districts, and coordinate required reporting. According to FY

Page 9

2(c), 2(f), 5(a),
5(c), 6, 7(a),
7(b), 8(b)

2(c), 2(f), 6,
7(a), 7(b), 8(b)

5(a), 7(a), 7(b),
8(b)

Page 89 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals



24-25 state budget, the SAP receives a tentative allocation of only $83,800,
including $69,554 for projects and $14,246 for administration. However,
the FARMER Guidelines were updated in 2024, which would require
substantial updates to the District’s policies and procedures, contracts with
SAP districts, and application materials before launching a new solicitation.
Given the limited amount of funding and complied with the requirements
from the revised guideline in 2024, the District has opted out of
administering the FY 24–25 SAP allocation. District staff will continue
administering projects from prior funding years and may resume
administering the SAP if more substantial funding becomes available.
Hexavalent Chromium Funding Program: In June 2023, the state legislature
appropriated $10 million in FY 23-24 funding to CARB with a liquidation
deadline of June 30, 2028, to reduce emissions from chrome plating
operations by transitioning away from the use of hexavalent chromium. The
District serves as the funding administer on behalf of CARB to collaborate
with participating air districts to solicit and review applications, evaluate
projects applications for funding, award and contract funds directly to grant
recipients, and complete required reporting to CARB. The District
developed program policies and procedures and officially launched the Hex
Chrome Funding Program on September 10, 2025. Staff continue working
with the participated air districts to implement this statewide incentive
program.
Incentive Program Advertising and Outreach: Statt continue maintaining a
website that provides the latest information on all available incentive
programs to Placer residents, public agencies, and businesses who seek for
grant opportunities to fund their emission reduction projects. In addition,
staff uses advertisements in local newspapers, distributes press releases to
local media outlets, participates in local community events such as Earth
day events, County Fairs, and Colfax Railroad Days to promote grants and
incentive programs. These outreach efforts will continue to be used in FY
2026-27.

Page 10

5(a), 7(a), 7(b),
8(b)

2(f), 6,

Page 90 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
Mission
Goal/Objective

Permitting & Engineering Section:
The Permitting & Engineering Section has the primary responsibility of
permitting stationary sources of emissions, in accordance with applicable state
and federal laws and District regulations. Specific responsibilities of the Section
include:
• Evaluation of new Authority to Construct applications, annually reviewing
Permits to Operate prior to renewal and invoicing, and Permit to Operate
renewal.
• Supporting the Hearing Board’s consideration of Variances and Abatement
Orders.
• Administering the Emission Reduction Credit (ERC) banking program by
issuing ERCs and tracking them in a Registry.
• Evaluating air toxic emissions from existing facilities through
implementation of the AB 2588 Air Toxics Hot Spots program, and
evaluation of air toxic emissions from new and modified facilities.
• Preparation and review of annual throughput information requests sent to
stationary sources, which gather information used to calculate emissions and
determine compliance with permit limits.
• Conducting comparison of state and federal control measure guidelines to
District rules and emission sources to demonstrate compliance or identify
rule deficiencies that will need to be corrected through new rules or rule
amendments and assisting in new or amended rule development.
• Assisting in regulation compliance education and response to business
inquiries and public information requests about sources.
• Identifying business operations that should be permitted by the District
through a permitting outreach effort, in conjunction with Compliance and
Enforcement Section staff.

1(a), 1(c), 1(d)
2(a), 2(d), 3(a),
3(b)
1(a), 2(c)
2(a), 2(b)
1(a), 4(a)
1(a), 1(e), 2(g)

1(c), 2(f), 3(a)
1(a), 1(b), 1(c),
2(d), 2(f), 3(a),
3(b)

Section tasks and projects to be advanced in the 2026-2027 fiscal year are:
 Database Development: Accela database development work will continue 1(c), 4(a), 8(b)
on the: (1) criteria and air toxics emission calculation and inventory module,
and (2) Citizen Access Portal throughput and authority to construct permit
application public user interfaces.
 Title V Permit Renewal: Federal “Title V” permits are issued by the District
1(a), 1(c), 1(d),
for five facilities – four “Major Sources” of air pollution Roseville Energy 2(d), 2(g)
Park, Gladding McBean, Sierra Pacific Industries – Lincoln, and Rio Bravo
Rocklin), and the Western Regional Sanitary Landfill. Title V permits are
issued for a five year period. In FY 2026-2027, the Title V permit for Rio
Bravo Rocklin will be renewed. The Title V permit for Gladding McBean
might be cancelled in 2026 due to acceptance of permit limits that reduce
emissions below major source thresholds.

Page 11

Page 91 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals




Air Toxics Risk: Refined air toxic risk assessments will continue for existing
coating operations (including autobody refinishing shops and wood, metal,
and plastic coaters) and back up diesel engine generators). Particular
consideration
will
be
given
to
coatings
which
contain
parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF). Participation will continue in the
CAPCOA air toxic subgroup to monitor and implement anticipated CARB
developments on the toxics of acrolein, iso-cyanates, and ethylene oxide.
Criteria and Toxics Emissions Reporting (CTR): The Accela database will
be used for automated reporting.

1(a), 1(c), 2(a),
2(b)

Emission Reduction Credits (ERC): Opportunities to create ERCs, through
either existing permitted facility closures or use of enhanced controls not
required by regulations, will continue to be evaluated.
Data Center Permitting: In anticipation of new data centers, permitting
requirements for diesel internal combustion engine and novel linear
generators will be tracked and developed.
U.S. EPA Rules: The District will continue to implement Federal U.S. EPA
Maximum Achievable Control Technology and New Source Performance
requirements for permitted sources and apply New Source Review “emission
projection” and “common control” permitting considerations.

1(a), 2(c), 7

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for Permitting: CEQA
review requirements for permitting new or modified stationary sources will
continue.
Inspections and Source Testing: Inspection of newly permitted sources and
review and approval of source test plans, source test observations, and source
test reports, will be conducted.
Agricultural Engine Registration Program: The compliance status of the
County’s agricultural community’s diesel engines registered in the District
Agricultural Engine Registration Program will be reviewed.
Best Available Control Technology (BACT): Federal, state and local air
district BACT determinations will be tracked, particularly those for
emergency backup diesel generators, gas dispensing vapor recovery, landfill
gas control, and compost management systems.
Landfill Gas Control: The requirements of the recently revised CARB
Landfill Gas Methane Rule will be implemented.
Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Events: Permitting guidelines and
policies will be developed to provide flexibility to operators of portable
emergency generator engines while ensuring the engines do not adversely
impact local air quality.
Permitting of Forest Biomass Waste Management Technologies: Continue
permitting innovative technologies that help manage forest biomass waste
generated from forest fuels reduction projects. This includes air curtain
incinerators, mobile biomass pyrolysis units, small boilers for community
heat and power, and “burn-bots”.

1(a), 1(c), 2(f)

Page 12

1(a), 1(c), 2(a),
3(a)

1(a), 1(c), 2(f)
1(a), 2(a), 2(b),
2(g)

1(b)
1(a), 1(c), 1(c)
1(a), 2(a), 2(b),
2(g)
1(a), 2(a), 2(b),
2(g)
1(a), 1(c), 2(a),
2(b), 5(a)
1(a), 1(c), 2(a),
5(b), 7(c)

Page 92 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals


Staffing: Currently staffed full-time positions will be maintained.
Engineering Intern may be added depending on resource needs.

Page 13

8(a), 9

Page 93 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
Compliance and Enforcement Section:
The Compliance and Enforcement Section is responsible for ensuring
compliance with permit conditions, District rules and regulations, and
applicable state and federal air pollution laws. This is achieved through
investigations and on-site inspections, and pursuing enforcement actions when
violations are found. Specific responsibilities of the Section include:
• Inspecting permitted and unpermitted stationary sources of air pollution
(i.e., facilities) for compliance with applicable rules and regulations. This
includes portable engines and equipment that are registered with the state.
• Investigating and resolving air pollution complaints from the public
regarding odors, smoke, dust, or air pollutant emissions from any source.
•
•
•

•
•
•

Reviewing monitoring data and reports, and observing source tests, for
compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
Issuing Notices of Violation or Corrective Action Notices when violations
are discovered.
Resolving enforcement cases for violations through: mutual civil
settlement; orders of abatement through the District’s Hearing Board; small
claims court adjudication; or referral of cases to the District’s contract legal
counsel for enforcement, the Placer County District Attorney’s Office, or
the State Attorney General’s Office.
Educating the public and permitted sources on air pollution rules and
regulations.
Assisting with emission control measures and rule development.
Enforcing open burning regulations in cooperation with local fire agencies,
through mutual support agreements, and obtaining fire agency costrecovery for response to air pollution violation incidents.

Section tasks and projects to be advanced in the 2026-2027 fiscal year are:
 Stationary Source Inspections: Target inspection schedules will be
maintained for a continually increasing number of stationary source
permits and portable engines and equipment in the State Registration
Program. For our federally permitted Title V and synthetic minor sources
(5 and 9 facilities respectively), inspections will be conducted with
procedures and at a frequency consistent with U.S. EPA guidelines.
 Asbestos from Construction and Demolition (C&D): In 2021, CARB
ended their oversight of the asbestos C&D Federal NESHAP and State
ATCM for air districts not authorized for this responsibility (which
includes Placer). Work will continue with CAPCOA, CARB, and the U.S.
EPA to implement an asbestos C&D program as may be necessary.


Consumer Product Retailers: As resources allow, we will continue pointof-sale inspections of retailers of consumer products – including
architectural and automotive coatings, water heaters, and wood stoves – for

Page 14

Mission
Goal/Objective

1(a), 1(b), 1(c),
2(a), 2(b), 2(d),
3(a), 3(b), 3(c)
1(a), 1(b), 2(a),
2(b), 2(d), 2(f),
3(a), 3(b), 3(c)
1(a), 1(b)
2(d), 3(a), 3(b)
3(b)

1(c), 2(f)
1(e), 2(g), 4(b)
1(b), 3(c), 5(b)

1(b), 1(c), 2(a),
2(b), 2(d), 2(f)

1(a), 1(b), 2(a),
2(b), 2(d)

Page 94 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals









compliance with District rules.
Continuous Emissions Monitoring System Data Compliance Audits:
Audits of continuous emissions system monitoring data from our biomass
and natural gas burning electricity generation facilities will continue.
Field Safety: Compliance will be maintained with California Division of
Occupational Safety and Health requirements for field staff (including risks
from wildfire smoke events).
Visual Emissions Evaluation: Certifications will be conducted at the
office using the virtual reality headset methodology.
Inter-agency Cooperation: Collaboration will continue with allied
agencies, including CARB, the agricultural commissioner, planning,
building and public works departments, law enforcement, fire agencies,
code enforcement, animal control, and environmental health.
Nuisance Odors: Reports of foul odors in West Roseville and Lincoln will
be investigated. Sources, including the Western Regional Landfill,
Roseville and Lincoln sewage treatment plants, and organic agricultural
fields, will continue to be evaluated. In the fall of 2025, the District
received over 100 complaints of odors resulting from the application of
fertilizer on agricultural fields west of the landfill. While odors from
legitimate agricultural operations are exempt from both state and local
nuisance regulations, the District will continue to pursue collaboration with
farmers and the County Agricultural Commissioner to inform constituents
of potential odors.
Wood Burning Appliance Smoke: Efforts to reduce smoke impacts from
wood burning fireplaces and stoves will continue to be refined and
implemented.
Smoke from Prescribed Burning: Strategies to reduce smoke impacts from
open pile and broadcast burning will continue to be developed and
implemented, including:
- Enhanced community outreach, air quality monitoring, and
implementation of Smoke Management Plan requirements.
- Collaborate with other agencies to increase the pace and scale of
prescribed fire while mitigating air quality impacts, as directed by the
Governor’s Proclamation of March 1, 2025, Expanding Beneficial
Fire.
Smoke Management Program: Collaboration will continue with other air
districts in the Sacramento Valley Air Basin to implement the Smoke
Management Program developed in partnership to manage smoke from
agricultural burning. The District will monitor all categories of burning
for potential localized air quality impacts and implement outreach,
education, and enforcement, as appropriate. The Smoke Management
Program seeks to minimize smoke impacts on the public and avoid any air
quality standard exceedances.
Notice of Violation Settlement: Mutual negotiated settlement in a timely
basis will continue to prioritized. Alternative settlement through small
claims court, contract attorney, or District attorney will be utilized as

Page 15

1(a), 1(b), 2(a),
2(b), 2(d)
1(b), 8, 9
1(b), 8, 9
3(c), 5(a), 5(b),
5(c)
1(a), 1(b), 2(b),
2(d), 2(f), 8

2(b), 2(c), 2(f)
1(a), 1(b), 2(b),
2(d), 2(f), 8

1(a), 1(b), 2(b),
2(d), 2(f), 8

3(b)

Page 95 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals




needed to ensure District enforcement objectives are achieved.
Staffing: Extra help part-time specialists will continue to be used as needed 8(a)
for after-business hours on-call complaint response, patrol/surveillance,
and for an increasing number of stationary source permit inspections and
portable engines and equipment inspections.
Prescribed Burn Reporting and Monitoring Support Program Grant: In 2018, 1(a), 1(d), 2(a),
the legislature passed several bills signed by the governor to reduce wildfire 2(f), 3(c), 5(b)
risk. SB 865 appropriated $2 million to assist air districts in implementing
prescribed fire smoke management programs, enhancing smoke
monitoring, and providing public outreach. The District received an
allocation of $120,000 for FY 2026. Some of this will be used for
prescribed fire smoke management training and smoke monitoring.

Page 16

Page 96 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
Mission
Goal/Objective

Administrative Services Section:
The Administrative Services Section is responsible for providing overall
administrative services and support for the District. Specific responsibilities of
the Section include:
• Preparation of monthly fiscal statements and review for management and
Board information.
• Clerk of the Board functions, including preparation of the Board Meeting
Agenda and the Board Packet that includes information and action items.
• Track, file, and archive District documents.
•
•
•
•
•

•

•
•
•
•
•
•

8
8
5(c), 8

Maintain District Policies and Procedures, including periodic review and
updates
Safety and risk, ensure training, regulatory compliance, and manage
incident response and prevention efforts.
Process payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable, purchasing, cost
accounting, cost allocation, and participate in the biennial audit conducted by
outside auditors.
Preparation, oversight, management, and administration of grant and
professional services contracts, including inter-agency Memorandums of
Understanding.
Ensure the accounting and financial reporting practices comply with all
applicable governmental accounting standards and regulatory requirements,
including federal grant rules and audit expectations. This includes
maintaining accurate financial records, managing grant budgeting and fiscal
reporting, implementing internal controls, and ensuring ongoing audit
readiness to support the integrity of the District’s financial operations.
Assisting the Air Pollution Control Officer (APCO) in preparing the annual
budget, providing monthly fiscal status summaries, quarterly performance
statistics, and conducting financial projections and stability analyses to
support long‑term planning and decision‑making.
Maintenance of the District’s networked computers and office equipment,
and recommendations for equipment replacement.

Maintenance and upgrade of the District database program to the Accela
platform as well as train District staff on the use of the Accela program.
Oversee the maintenance of District motor vehicles and their sign-out by
staff.
Maintenance and control of personnel files and training logs (Personnel
Liaison).
Facility maintenance and operations for the District offices at 110 Maple
Street, Auburn, including management of repairs and scheduled preventive
maintenance, and oversight of building related service contracts.
Complete office management functions, including answering caller
inquiries, directing the public to the proper staff, and facilitating all business
transactions with the District.

5(b), 5(c), 8

Page 17

8, 9
5(b), 8
5(a), 5(b), 5(c), 8
8, 9

5(b), 5(c), 8

5(b), 5(c), 8
8
5(c), 8
8

Page 97 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals
Mission
Goal/Objective

Administrative Services Section:
Section tasks and projects to be advanced in the 2026-27 fiscal year are:




Technology Improvement Program: Management of the Strategic
Information Technology Master Plan and continued improvements to the
Accela platform.
• Client Access Portal Project: The District continues to expand its
delivery of electronic information and services to District clients and
the public through the Accela Citizen Access Portal. The Accela
platform allows the District to facilitate a client access portal that
provides online access to permit and billing information and client
contact profiles. The District will continue to expand the types of
available online applications to further enhance service to the
community.
ADA Compliance for Electronic Information: In the upcoming fiscal
year, staff will work collaboratively with internal program teams and
County IT to ensure that all electronic information made available to the
public complies with ADA accessibility standards. This effort will include
reviewing existing digital documents, forms, and web‑based content;
identifying formatting or structural barriers; and implementing necessary
updates to improve accessibility.
• Given the federal requirement for public‑facing electronic
documents to be fully accessible by April 26, 2027, the District has
begun prioritizing high‑use materials and developing internal
practices to support ongoing compliance. This includes establishing
consistent formatting standards, improving document creation
workflows, and ensuring that new materials are produced in an
accessible, user‑friendly format aligned with statutory accessibility
requirements.
Evaluation of Fee Structure and Cost Recovery: In the upcoming fiscal
year, management will evaluate the District’s fee structure and
cost-recovery practices for key program areas. This effort will focus on
analyzing the actual cost of providing these services, reviewing current
recovery rates and regulatory requirements, and identifying areas where
adjustments may be warranted to ensure equitable and sustainable funding.
• While the District is not yet prepared to engage a consultant for a
comprehensive fee study, this internal review will establish the
foundation for future evaluation and potential refinement of the fee
structure.
• Following completion of this analysis, District management
anticipates bringing recommended actions to the Board for
consideration, ensuring that any proposed adjustments support
effective cost recovery, maintain regulatory compliance, and align
with the District’s strategic and financial priorities.

Page 18

1(a), 1(b), 1(c),
1(d), 2(d), 3(b),
4(a), 5(c), 8
8(b)

5(c), 8, 9

Page 98 of 109

Placer County Air Pollution Control District
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Section Goals




Capital Facility Maintenance Plan for District Offices at 110 Maple
Street, Auburn: The on-going plan includes a schedule of required long
term maintenance for the building exterior, parking lot, roof, and interior
flooring. The plan provides an assessment and timeline for anticipated
services, to preserve the service life of the building. The FY 2026-27
Proposed Budget includes funds for the maintenance of the District in the
• amount of $25K.

5(c), 8

Continued Organization and Resource Assessment: In the prior fiscal
year, District management obtained Board approval to revise the
organizational structure to better support succession planning, staff
retention, and professional advancement opportunities. This action followed
a thorough evaluation of organizational needs and staffing resources.
• Ensuring that the District remains competitive in attracting and
retaining qualified personnel continue to be a key focus, along with
efforts to optimize workloads in alignment with statutory
requirements, available resources, and the evolving needs of Placer
County communities. Management will continue evaluating the
organizational structure in relation to workloads and available
resources to maintain operational efficiency and support long-term
strategic goals.

8(a), 9

Continuous Process Improvement: The Administrative Services Section
is committed to continuous process improvement to strengthen the
efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of the District’s administrative and
fiscal operations. This includes regularly reviewing workflows, identifying
opportunities to streamline procedures, enhancing internal controls, and
reducing operational and financial risk. By refining processes and adopting
best practices, the Section supports effective service delivery, promotes
accountability, and ensures that District resources are managed responsibly
and transparently.

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FY 2026-27 Final Budget Summary
The Final Budget for FY 2026–27 provides a structurally balanced plan that maintains
services to the community, operations, and program administration, while also supporting
the District’s substantial investments in projects and clean air programs and promoting
long‑term financial stability and flexibility.
The District continues to evolve in response to increasing regulatory complexity, rising
community expectations, and the need for long-term organizational stability. Following the
recent organizational restructuring, the District is now in the process of implementing the
new structure. During this transition, management will continue to closely monitor
workflows, staffing needs, revenue trends, and overall operational impacts to ensure the
reorganization functions as intended and supports effective service delivery. This ongoing
oversight will allow the District to make timely adjustments and maintain continuity as the
new structure is phased in.
As part of ongoing fiscal oversight, district staff will evaluate the fee structure and
cost-recovery practices in the upcoming fiscal year. This review will focus on assessing the
actual cost of providing key services, examining current recovery levels within statutory
limits, and determining whether adjustments may be warranted to support equitable and
sustainable funding. While the District’s fees will continue to be adjusted based on the
annual CPI, staff will conduct a more detailed internal analysis to better understand
long-term cost trends and revenue needs. Upon completion of this review, management
may return to the Board with a recommendation to initiate a comprehensive fee and
cost-recovery study to ensure continued alignment with the District’s strategic and financial
priorities.
To further strengthen long-term financial stability, the budget increases the reserve balance,
bringing it to 35 percent of operating appropriations. This enhanced reserve level is
intended to help mitigate financial risks associated with factors outside the District’s
control, including economic fluctuations, grant timing, and unforeseen operational needs.
Establishing a more robust reserve position supports continuity of services and reinforces
the District’s commitment to prudent financial planning. To formalize these fiscal
protections, District management will develop a comprehensive reserve and investment
policy this fiscal year. This policy will officially codify the target reserve level,
replenishment recovery rates, and auxiliary investment funds, including the PARS trust for
pension liability. There is sufficient unassigned fund balance to fully fund the increased
reserve. Additional detail on the reserve target and related fund balance considerations is
provided in the fund balance section below.

Staffing Changes:

There are no proposed staffing changes to the upcoming budget.

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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

Budget Overview:

The total Final Budget for FY 2026-27 is $20,760,171, comprising $5,828,634 for District
Operations, $12,534,797 for Incentives and Projects, and $2,396,740 in Appropriations for
Contingency. This reflects a 39% decrease from the adopted FY 2025-26 budget of
$33,854,508. The decrease is primarily driven by a correction in accounting practices,
specifically the recognition of advanced grant revenue only when it is earned rather than when
it is received. Under this GASB 33 compliant approach, advance grant revenues are now
budgeted in alignment with eligible expense appropriations. As a result, the prior budget
increase associated with the Hexavalent Chromium (Hex Chrome) Grant and the incorporation
of FARMER Fund grant administration into the formal budget no longer appears as an upfront
revenue spike. Despite this change in timing, overall revenue projections remain stable.

Fund Summaries:
•

The Air Pollution Control District Fund (FD32400) contains seven Programs
within the Air Pollution Control District Cost Center (CC73000). Four of these
programs were newly introduced beginning FY 2025–26, following the district’s
revision of the chart of accounts. This update was implemented to enhance clarity
and transparency by clearly distinguishing revenues and appropriations between core
district operations and project-based or pass-through incentive funds. These programs
are components of the District’s chart of accounts described below:
•
•

•

General Administration (PG730011): General administration and facilities
costs are pooled here for allocation to benefiting programs and grants in
accordance with 2 CFR 200 for maximized cost recovery.
Operations (PG730000): The Operations Program is primarily focused on
administering incentive programs that fund equipment replacement and other
clean-air projects. Core responsibilities include processing applications,
evaluating project cost-effectiveness based on expected pollution-reduction
benefits, awarding funds to high-impact projects, and contracting with grant
award beneficiaries. The Program also manages funding agreements with
granting agencies and maintains policies and procedures to ensure effective
and compliant program administration.
Compliance and Enforcement (PG730008) This program captures District’s
efforts to uphold environmental standards and regulatory requirements. It tracks
both costs and revenues tied to inspections, investigations, and enforcement
actions.
Planning and Monitoring (PG730009) Focused on the strategic and operational
oversight of air quality initiatives, this program accounts for expenditures and
income related to planning, data collection, and air quality monitoring across the
County.
Permitting and Engineering (PG730010) This program reflects the District’s
technical operations, including permit processing, engineering evaluations, and
support services. It tracks the resources invested in ensuring projects meet
regulatory and environmental benchmarks.
110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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•

Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

DMV (PG730001): The DMV Program is restricted to grant awards for
incentives and funding for clean air projects. These funds are not available for
general operational use and must be awarded to eligible recipients in support of
specific air quality improvement initiatives.
Mitigation (PG730006): The Mitigation Program is a restricted program that
is used only for the purposes described in each individual mitigation plan. The
revenue sources for this fund come from mitigation plans approved at the
discretion of the Land Use Authorities.

The FARMER Fund (Funding Agricultural Replacement Measures for Emission
Reductions) (FD32404), consisting of one Program (PG730020), is included in the
FY 2026-27 budget for approval and supports three multi-years, overlapping grants.
These grants provide incentive funding to reduce agricultural emissions through the
replacement of older diesel-powered equipment. The State began annual
appropriations for the FARMER program in FY 2017-18; however, funding was
discontinued in the FY 2024-25 State Budget and has not been reinstated. The
remaining three grant agreements, covering FY 2021–22 through FY 2023–24, are
expected to conclude by the end of FY 2028. Most of the project funding has already
been advanced or obligated, with all associated administrative activities expected to
be completed by that time.

Budgeted Beginning Fund Balance Summary (FD32400) District Operations:
Beginning Fund Balances Budgeted for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27:
• Unassigned Fund Balance of $9,262,896
o $6,758,459 AB 923 DMV and Mitigation Designated for Projects
o $2,504,437 District Operations
• Restricted and Assigned Fund Balances of $5,131,497
o $2,040,022 Assigned - Reserves
o $25,000 Assigned - Building Improvements and Repairs
o $3,066,475 Restricted - PARS pension liabilities

Unassigned Fund Balance:

The beginning unassigned fund balance related to District core operations is $2,504,437,
reflecting a $1.8 million decrease from the prior year. This decline is primarily attributable
to the recommended $1.4 million increase in assigned reserves and the reclassification of
fund balance to unearned revenue for advanced-basis grant funding.
The beginning fund balance designated for projects, totaling $6,758,459, represents a $2.5
million decrease from the prior year. This reduction is also driven by the reclassification of
fund balance to unearned revenue for advanced grant funding.
Although these fund balances decreased, District revenues remain strong, and the changes
reflect a correction in accounting treatment rather than a decline in financial performance.
The reclassification aligns the District’s reporting with the Governmental Accounting
110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

Standards Board Statement No. 33 (GASB 33), ensuring that advanced grant funding is
recorded as unearned revenue until eligible costs are incurred.
Assigned Reserve Funds:

In the FY 2007–08 budget, the Board designated $595,000 to the assigned fund balance. For
the upcoming fiscal year, the budget increases the assigned reserve to $2,040,022,
representing 35% of core operating appropriations. This level provides the District with
approximately four months of operating reserves, giving sufficient time to respond to
sudden economic shifts and mitigate the impacts of revenue volatility.
This recommendation reflects the relatively high-risk nature of the District’s revenue
sources. A significant portion of staffing and operations is supported by grant funding,
service and permit fees, and DMV registration surcharges, each of which is influenced by
external factors outside the District’s control. Grant revenue depends on legislative budget
decisions and statewide economic conditions, and fee and permit revenues fluctuate with
local development activity and broader economic cycles. In other air districts throughout
California, flattened or declining DMV registration surcharges, and slowing development
driven by population shifts, have contributed to structural budget deficits. While the District
is currently experiencing growth, these revenue streams can change quickly, making it
prudent to maintain reserves that safeguard the continuity of operations.

In addition to the operating reserve, the District will retain $25,000 within the assigned fund
balance specifically dedicated to emergency building maintenance.
Restricted Cash & Investments (PARS Account):

Funds related to the Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) pension trust were
designated as restricted fund balance in FY 2022–23. At each fiscal year-end, the District
reconciles PARS earnings and the restricted fund balance with the PARS trust account
balance. At the end of FY 2025–26, the District’s portion of the County’s pension liability
was $4,543,321; with an ending PARS trust balance of $3,066,475, this liability is
approximately 67.5% funded. Given the District’s strong financial position regarding
pension funding, no additional contributions are anticipated for FY 2026–27.
Additionally, based on current investment performance and healthcare trend rates, Other
Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) funding is projected to remain stable at current
contribution levels. The District concluded FY 2025-26 with a net OPEB asset of $158,576.
The District will continue to work closely with Placer County to strategically manage
pension and OPEB liabilities, ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

Revenue Summary:
•

FD32400 APCD - $10,978,778
• Permits/Fines/Fees of $2,013,000 represent a 3% increase which includes
estimations for increasing fees by the annual CPI of 3.09% and bringing
110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

•

revenues more in line with actuals.
Investment Income of $679,948, representing a 124% increase over the prior
year. The growth is largely driven by prior year earned interest from higher cash
balances on advance-basis grants, where investment earnings revenue will be
recognized as eligible costs are incurred.
Federal Intergovernmental Transfers of 1,644,363, representing a 48%
decrease to reflect the balance of the EPA Targeted Air Shed Clean Air and
Woodstove incentive multi-year grants that are set to expire at the end of the next
fiscal year. The EPA 103 and EPA 105 funding remains flat.
o $169,367 District Operations EPA 103 and 105 Funding
o $1,474,996 EPA TAG Incentive Grant Funding
State Intergovernmental Transfers of $6,124,859, representing a 56% decrease
from the prior year, mostly due to the change in recording multi-year advance
grant revenues as unearned until costs are incurred. This amount includes
$2,630,000 in DMV Surcharge revenues (a 5% increase in line with current
trends), and $3,494,859 in state funded grants and other programs (70% decrease
from the prior year), which includes $566,895 for grant administration, $90,000 for
state subvention, $229,583 for clean air monitoring, reporting, and burn programs,
and $2,608,381 for state funded incentive grant projects.
Other Charges of $516,608 represent a 10% increase over the prior year
primarily due to revenue in line with current trends. This amount includes
$82,696 in aid from other agencies, mostly for the Tahoe Regional Planning
Agency (TRPA) Woodstove Replacement Program, $217,412 for the Per Capita
Assessment, $6,500 for BCC fees, $10,000 for Health Fees related to Air Toxics,
and $200,000 in Mitigation Fees.

FD32404 FARMER - $518,496
• Investment Income of $100,000
• State Aid of $418,496

Appropriation Summary:
•

FD32400 APCD - $20,241,675
• Capital Assets total $109,000, representing an 8% decrease from the prior year.
This amount provides funding for the purchase of one new vehicle as needed
($60K), a methane analyzer ($25K), and for air-monitoring equipment
replacements that may be required in the event of equipment failure ($24K). The
decrease from the prior year is due to one-time, grant-funded equipment
purchases that are not planned for the upcoming year.
• Salaries and Benefits total $4,320,706, reflecting no material change from the
prior year. This amount incorporates recently negotiated wage increases and key
elements of organizational restructuring. The total remains flat compared to the
prior budget primarily because several vacant positions that were previously
budgeted at higher more conservative salary and benefit levels were filled with
lower-cost, entry-level staff, generating savings that offset the increases in the
110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

•

•
•
•

•

current year. Additionally, there is a modest vacancy included as the
restructuring continues to be implemented and workloads and needs monitored.
Services and Supplies total of $1,085,553 remaining flat from the prior year. The
total includes an increase in the cost of general insurance, software licensing for air
monitoring data collection, and offset with slightly lower travel and training costs
to bring the budget more in line with actual spending levels.
Projects and Incentives total $12,016,301, representing a 48% reduction from
the prior year. This decrease is driven by a change in how advance grant funding
is recorded, which in turn affects how related appropriations are budgeted. Rather
than budgeting for all available grant funds to be spent in the upcoming year, the
budget now includes only projects carried forward from prior years, project funds
included in the current Clean Air Program solicitation, and available mitigation
and estimated Hex Chrome related project spending.
County 2 CFR 200 Cost Allocation of $263,375 reflects a reduction of 18% from
the prior year.
Operating Transfers of $50,000 to the Settlement Fund for the annual building
purchase repayment.
Appropriations for Contingency of $2,396,740, representing a decrease of 47%
from the prior year. This reduction is directly tied to the increase in assigned
reserves and the correction in how advance grant funding is recorded, which
lowers the unassigned fund balance carried forward from prior years.

FD32404 FARMER - $518,496
• Projects and incentive passthroughs of $518,496

Settlement Fund:

In FY 2007-08, the District received $2,742,500 in litigation settlement funds and $700,000
in litigation cost recovery funds from the Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) case, initiated by the
State Attorney General’s Office on behalf of the District and other parties. These funds were
placed in an interest-bearing account, with the accrued interest designated for District
projects and programs.
In FY 2010-11, the Board approved the use of $1,500,000 from the Settlement Fund for the
purchase of the District facility at 110 Maple Street in Auburn. Additionally, $361,500 from
the Litigation Cost Recovery Fund was allocated for one-time facility relocation costs. In
approving this use, the Board directed staff, on an annual basis as appropriate, to repay these
Funds in order to return them to their original amounts.
For FY 2026-27, the District will appropriate the annual $50,000 operating transfer to the
Settlement Fund to facilitate repayment for the facility purchase with funds drawn from the
Operations Fund. As of June 2026, the Settlement Fund maintains a balance of $2,417,500,
while the Litigation Cost Recovery Fund holds $338,500.

110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

New Programs and Grants:

As part of the efforts to expand community engagement and strengthen public awareness of
District programs, the District recently completed a competitive Request for Proposals
(RFP) process for outreach and engagement services. Following the evaluation of submitted
proposals, the District entered into a contract with the selected firm to support enhanced
communication, outreach planning, and stakeholder engagement activities. This new
partnership will help advance the District’s strategic goals by improving the accessibility,
clarity, and reach of information provided to residents, businesses, and community partners.

110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

Placer Air Pollution Control District (APCD) Budget
FY 2026-27
PCAPCD Fund 32400, Cost Center 73000
FINAL BUDGET
REVENUE
PERMITS/FINES/PENALTIES

Ledger
Total Permits/Fines/Penalties

FY 2026-27

FY 2024-25

FY 2025-26

Total Operations and
Projects

Operations Budget

Projects Budget

Actuals

Budget

Variance from FY 2025-26 Adopted
Budget

2,013,000

2,265,764

1,946,666

66,334

Total Investment Income

679,948

378,179

301,769

984,443

304,107

124%

375,841

Total Federal Revenue

1,644,363

169,367

1,474,996

607,212

3,165,989

-48%

(1,521,626)

Total State Revenue

6,124,859

2,706,478

3,418,381

2,383,473

13,966,741

-56%

(7,841,882)

516,608

453,912

62,696

990,169

469,723

10%

46,885

10,978,778

5,720,936

5,257,842

7,231,061

19,853,226

-45%

(8,874,448)

Total Other Charges/Misc
TOTAL REVENUES
Variance Checks

EXPENSES
Total Capital Assets
Total Salaries and Benefits

109,000

120,420

118,985

-8%

(9,985)

4,320,706

3,530,263

4,345,825

-1%

(25,119)

4,546,407

23,957,928

-45%

(10,856,075)

Variance Check

Total Services and Supplies

13,101,853

1,085,552

12,016,301

$0.00

Total Other Charges

263,375

202,285

321,205

-18%

(57,830)

Total Operating Transfers and Contingency

2,446,740

240,276

4,640,412

-47%

(2,193,672)

TOTAL EXPENSES

20,241,675

8,225,374

8,639,650

33,384,355

-39%

(13,142,680)

Total Operations and
Projects

Ledgers Summary

Final Operational
Budget

12,016,301
-

Final Project Budget

FY 23-24 Actuals

Variance Check

Variance

FY 2025-26

TOTAL REVENUES

10,978,778

5,720,936

5,257,842

7,231,061

19,853,226

45%

(8,874,448)

TOTAL EXPENSES

20,241,675

8,225,374

12,016,301

8,639,650

33,384,355

39%

(13,142,680)

(9,262,896)

(2,504,437)

(6,758,459)

(1,408,589)

(13,531,129)

Beginning Fund Balances

9,262,896

2,504,437

6,758,459

Budgeted Ending Unassigned Fund Balances

2,396,740

NET REV-EXP Budgeted (Dec)/Inc to Fund Balance
Beginning FB Variance Check (Rounding)

Variance Check for Balance Budget Incl Contingency

Assigned Fund Balance Contingency - Original

595,000

Assigned Fund Balance Contingency - Increase

1,445,022

Assigned Fund Balance Capital Assets - Building

25,000

Restricted Fund Balance Retirement
Total Assigned/Restricted Fund Balance

3,066,475

13,531,129
-

5,131,497

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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

Placer Air Pollution Control District (APCD) Budget
FY 2026-27
FARMER Fund 32404, Cost Center 73002
FINAL BUDGET
REVENUE
FY 2026-27
100,000

PG730020
100,000

Total State Revenue

418,496

TOTAL REVENUES

518,496

Total Investment Income

Variance Checks

EXPENSES
Variance Check

Total Services and Supplies

518,496

TOTAL EXPENSES

518,496

Ledgers Summary

Final Budget

FARMER

TOTAL REVENUES

518,496

TOTAL EXPENSES

518,496

NET REV-EXP Budgeted (Dec)/Inc to Fund Balance
Beginning FB Variance Check (Rounding)

Projected Beginning Fund Balances

Budgeted Ending Unassigned Fund Balances

FARMER

Total Expenses
Contingency
Total Appropriations

518,496
518,496

110 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603 • (530) 745-2330 • Fax (530) 745-2373 • www.placerair.org
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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

FY 2026-27 FINAL BUDGET REVENUES - $20,760,171
Permits & Fees,
$1,863,000 , 9%
Fines, Forfeitures,
Penalties,
$150,000 , 1%

Unassigned Fund Balance,
$9,262,896 , 45%

Investment Income,
$779,948 , 4%

Federal,
$1,644,363 , 8%

Charges and Assessments,
$516,608 , 2%

State, $6,543,355
, 31%

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Erik C. White, Air Pollution Control Officer

FY 2026-27 FINAL BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS - $20,760,171

County Cost
Allocation,
$263,375 , 1%

Transfers/Other Financing
Uses, $50,000 , 0%

Appropriation for
Contingencies, $2,396,740 ,
12%

Capital Assets,
$109,000 , 1%

Salaries & Benefits,
$4,320,706 , 21%

Services &
Supplies,
$1,085,552 , 5%

Projects and
Incentives,
$12,534,797 , 60%

Page 30

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