The revenue generated from the ratepayers should contribute to the local economy which in turn contributes to community development.
I support a community benefits policy for the West County Wastewater District that is embedded in community benefits criteria into the wastewater district's professional services RFPs. There are several components to this policy that fosters economic and community development. Based on the current rate increase, approximately $325 million will be generated. As much as possible, I think these funds should benefit contractors and working people who live, work and recreate in the wastewater district. I believe that as a first priority, local contractors should be hired to complete projects in the wastewater district. Large contractors that receive contracts should be required to utilize local contractors as part of the workforce to complete capital improvement projects such as improving the aging infrastructure. The large contractors should pay into a fund that provide technical assistance to small firms to increase their ability to compete for contracting opportunity. As a member of the San Pablo Economic Development Corporation, I believe that investing in local businesses and their workforce strengthens the local economy. Large contractors who are awarded contracts should contribute a portion of their income from contracts to local nonprofit organizations. These contractors should also contribute to educational programs that attract minority and female youth to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The wastewater industry workforce is aging as evidenced by the reality that 45% of the workforce will retire within the next five years. Programs in partnership with the school district and community college should be expanded to address
the looming workforce shortage. A community benefits fund can also support scholarships, career exploration, internships and a summer youth employment program that provides on-the-job training in partnership with the Richmond Youth Build Program and the National Association of Sewer Service Companies. Youth for these programs should be recruited from the communities that are impacted by capital improvement projects.
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