ABOUT THE PROJECT

The fellow would provide support to implementing the County’s 2030 Climate Action Plan and Zero Emission Vehicle Action Plan. This may involve research, writing, community engagement, grant writing and more.

The fellow would also provide support to the Santa Barbara County Regional Climate Collaborative and its various committees, initiatives and events.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The County seeks to implement policies and programs under the 2030 Climate Action Plan and Zero Emission Vehicle Plan. The fellow would provide support to various subject areas. Projects may include supporting the policy development for transportation demand management, developing an internal Electric Vehicle Charging Station Implementation manual; performing outreach, education and assistance for establishing charging stations and/or car-sharing stations. This would help to build new systems and programs to implement the County’s plans.

The County seeks to continue its management of the Santa Barbara County Regional Climate Collaborative, and its various initiatives. The Collaborative has multiple committees and holds two annual in-person events. Additionally the Collaborative facilitates two grant-funded initiatives which need coordination support.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The County of Santa Barbara encompasses 8 incorporated jurisdictions, a tribal nation and an air force base and is characterized primarily by suburban and rural settings. The County of Santa Barbara’s main offices are located in downtown Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara enjoys pleasant weather year-round, and a relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking and camping are popular. Santa Barbara also enjoys a variety of local wine, beer and food establishments. 

The Sustainability Division staff are creative and resourceful and the office enjoys a friendly atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in the office too! The Sustainability Division develops and implements countywide programs and policies primarily covering climate and energy, but the Division also leads all interdepartmental and stakeholder efforts on a variety of sustainability issues such as community planning, climate adaptation, sustainable transportation, waste reduction & recycling and municipal facilities. The Fellow would have the opportunity to be exposed and involved with a variety of interest areas.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Support is needed for the County of Santa Barbara’s partnership in 3C-REN (the Tri-County Regional Energy Network), for energy efficiency programs that serve residents—and renters especially—addressing the need to provide education and outreach around DIY energy efficiency measures. Additionally, support is needed for the Resilient Central Coast campaign that seeks to empower residents to take action to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

There are three capacity building projects that the fellow would work on for 3C-REN (the Tri-County Regional Energy Network) and the Resilient Central Coast campaign:

• Education and outreach for 3C-REN’s DIY Home Energy Savings Toolkits and Induction Cooktops.
• Event support for 3C-REN’s programs in Building Performance Training and Energy Code Connect.
• Reporting, evaluation, outreach, and engagement for the Resilient Central Coast campaign for the County of Santa Barbara.

For 3C-REN’s Home Energy Savings program, the Fellow will coordinate offerings and partnerships with libraries throughout Santa Barbara County. 3C-REN currently offers DIY Home Energy Savings Toolkits and Induction Cooktops that library patrons can check out. In addition to managing toolkit and induction cooktop supplies, coordinating with libraries, and conducting educational presentations, the Fellow will work with partner libraries to explore and develop new opportunities to collaborate. The Fellow will also work to expand the toolkit and induction cooktop program. This may include identifying existing educational programs to which 3C-REN could add energy or sustainability content or identifying new partners and audiences for outreach and check-out opportunities. The Fellow’s work and resource development will increase 3C-REN’s capacity to serve tri-county residents—and renters especially—with energy efficiency education and tools.

The Fellow will also support 3C-REN’s Building Performance Training (BPT) and Energy Code Connect (ECC) trainings and workshops targeting current and prospective building professionals. The BPT and ECC programs host free events on a wide variety of topics relating to energy efficiency, high performance buildings, and electrification. The Fellow will have the opportunity to work with 3C-REN staff across the Tri-County to support event planning, execution, and follow-up.

Separately from 3C-REN, the fellow will support the Resilient Central Coast campaign, of which the County of Santa Barbara is a partner and offers a countywide climate action platform for residents. The goal of Resilient Central Coast is to provide every-day solutions and climate-friendly actions that empower central coast residents to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency. The Fellow will do work to assess the effectiveness of the campaign such as producing reports to track metrics and platform use data and evaluating engagement, with the opportunity to recommend campaign and platform changes. They will also do work to grow participation, such as conducting outreach, leading presentations and activities in the community, developing tactics to engage participants, and creating outreach materials. The Fellow’s work to assess the effectiveness of the Resilient Central Coast platform and grow participation will enable the County to better empower residents to take everyday actions to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Santa Barbara County is blessed with beaches, mountains, farmlands, and an eclectic culture. There is an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, arts and culture, breweries, and wineries. The County is a microcosm of the country: there is a dichotomy between the more affluent, liberal south coast and the more industry-friendly north county. The structural and political challenges of climate change and climate policy are intriguing and complex.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The County of Ventura adopted the 2040 General Plan in September 2020 and has passed eleven amendments to its regulations since 2023, including adoption of the County’s 2021-2029 6th cycle In addition, there are over 51 active long-range planning projects that address complex issues facing counties and cities in California, such as affordable housing, environmental justice, climate resilience, biological resources, land conservation, economic development, and healthy communities, among others. A unique fellowship position is available in the Housing and State Mandates section that will assist with a wide range of professional planning projects to facilitate sustainable and equitable housing opportunities in Ventura County.

Projects can range from analysis of State regulations that may impact the County, research of certain housing types (e.g. Housing Co-ops, Tiny Homes, etc.), crto facilitate housing development, and much more. Fellows that are interested in obtaining an understanding to how local governments work and what it looks like behind the development permitting processes while working on complex and current issues in California – this job is for you!

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Fellow will support the Housing and State Mandates Section with the following projects related to the County’s adopted 2021-2029 Housing Element, which may include outreach and program implementation components:

1)Research options for adding new housing types into the County’s ordinances

2)Develop public information materials and homeowner tools for affordable housing, such as Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units in the Coastal areas, special needs housing, etc.;

3) Analyze data and conduct research to prepare the state-mandated annual progress report for the State Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) and State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD);

4) Review new state legislation and develop informational materials for the public, Planning Division, and other agencies;

5) Conduct research and assist in development of a possible application for the State’s Prohousing Designation Program,

7) Assist with preparation of the County’s annual action plan pursuant to HUD funding requirements;

8) Research options for implementing a program allowing the County and neighboring cities to share their regional housing allocation.

Additionally, the Fellow may support the General Plan Implementation Section with the following projects:

1) Update County guidelines used to comply with the California Environmental Quality Act and to identify potential environmental impacts of proposed development projects;

2) Assist in development of alternative energy programs, including green building techniques and energy efficiency incentive programs;

3) Conduct public engagement efforts (e.g., workshops, stakeholder meetings, website updates) for General Plan programs including, but not limited to, energy programs and disadvantaged communities;

4) Assist in the preparation of County-initiated General Plan amendments and new web-based reports showing compliance with General Plan programs, including those related to climate action.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Ranked the best place to live by the United States Department of Agriculture in 2015, Ventura County is situated along the central California coast between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties. With a population of approximately 850,000 residents, the cities within the county retain a small-town feel and productive agricultural fields while providing convenient access to its busier, neighboring counties. Ventura County is the gateway to the Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary which is home to endangered species, sensitive habitats, and historic shipwrecks. The portion of Los Padres National Forest within Ventura County offers hiking and camping, while the Santa Monica Mountains along the coast offer mountain biking, hiking, and amazing ocean views. Because of its natural beauty, Ventura County is frequently a filming location from movies. Ventura County is the strawberry capital of the state and home to some of California’s top beaches, championship golf courses, wine tasting, world-class dining, year-round whale watching, and a variety of recreational activities. There is a high quality of life in Ventura County, but like other coastal areas, housing costs are also relatively high.

Specifically, on the Housing and State Mandates team will be interacting with many of the County’s housing stakeholders to collaborate on project goals. This may include general public outreach, infrastructure service providers, municipal advisory groups, affordable housing developers, and farmworker housing advocacy groups.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The City’s Sustainability Division strives to create a healthy, resilient, and sustainable city by addressing a range of special  projects and programs intended to further goals, especially with respect to renewable energy and climate resiliency. The Sustainability Division within the Planning & Environmental Review Department creates and implements long-term sustainability vision for the City and supports efforts to incorporate sustainability into core City processes and decision-making. Given that the City of Goleta faces significant threats to reliability and resiliency of the electrical grid due to its geographic location at the end of Southern California Edison’s high-voltage transmission lines, a CivicSpark Fellow would help build capacity in a variety of projects to help the City address climate action and community resilience challenges related to energy and transportation in an equitable manner. The City’s Old Town area specifically is impacted by a higher pollution burden than the rest of the City and has been identified as a Disadvantaged Community under the EPA’s CalEnviroScreen 4.0. Specific projects will be prioritized based on City Council direction following review of the Department’s Annual Work Program and time available, but address the following overarching goals:

1. Support the City’s 100% Renewable Energy goals through Strategic Energy Plan Implementation;
2. Integrate equitable public outreach in all projects;
3. Strengthen regional coordination with other jurisdictional staff and CivicSpark fellows;
4. Implement Plastic Pollution Reduction Ordinance and associated community outreach (Plastic Free Goleta);
5. Support the City’s efforts to further electric vehicle infrastructure, renewable energy, and battery storage;
6. Implement a Clean Technology in Buildings Program – Promoting Heat Pumps.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. Support the City’s 100% Renewable Energy goals through Strategic Energy Plan Implementation- (SEP) – The SEP was developed as a roadmap to identify how the City could reach its 100% Renewable Energy goals by 2030. The SEP identifies barriers to renewable energy development and recommends strategies to overcome the barriers. Related equity considerations and outreach to the City’s Spanish speaking population is a focus of the Plan. The fellow will have the opportunity to participate in numerous activities. For example, the City is a member agency in Central Coast Community Energy (CCCE), a community choice energy aggregator. CCCE provides many local programs that the Fellow could help support to advance building and transportation electrification, including facilitating permitting for battery energy storage to increase resilience in the community. Additionally, the Fellow could support Reach Code implementation and support Energy Assurance Planning, identified as a strategy in the SEP to protect critical municipal facilities so that they continue to operate in the event of an electricity outage in our vulnerable region. Such support would include coordination with other departments and agencies, including Santa Barbara County.
2. Integrate equitable public outreach in all projects- The Fellow would utilize various tools for public outreach and engagement, including to the City’s Spanish speaking population. This may include the opportunity to write articles for the community online newsletter, create social media posts, create of flyers or other graphics, support in-person workshops or presentations, and continued virtual engagement. The outcome would be identification of best practices for increasing awareness about sustainability issues and increasing participation from a broad cross section of the community.
3. Strengthen regional coordination with other jurisdictional staff and CivicSpark fellows – The Fellow could build capacity by supporting the City’s participation in the Santa Barbara County Regional Climate Collaborative.
4. Implement Plastic Pollution Reduction Ordinance and associated community outreach through Plastic Free Goleta – The Fellow will conduct in-person outreach to local businesses, as well as prepare and host informational tables at community outreach events such as the Goleta Lemon Festival, State of the City, and Earth Day.
5. Support the City’s efforts to further electric vehicle infrastructure, renewable energy, and battery storage – The Fellow will help staff prepare requests for proposals for site feasibility, assess submitted proposals, and potentially help with infrastructure projects (associated with #1 above).
6. Implement a new Heat Pump Permit Fee Waiver Program – the Fellow would work internally with City Building and Planning staff to implement the program (slated for Council adoption in June 2025) and with the public to incentivize clean, efficient technology. There would be outreach associated with this project.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Known to locals as the “Good Land,” the City of Goleta is a thriving community located on the south coast of Santa Barbara County, approximately 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles and just ten miles west of downtown Santa Barbara. The City stretches approximately 8 square miles along a beautiful coastline, within a narrow coastal plain of exceptional natural beauty between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

Goleta exemplifies diversity and balance in areas such as: single-family homes and multi-family apartments; new start-ups and long-established and thriving businesses; quiet neighborhood streets and smooth flowing freeways; tree canopies and wide open spaces; organic farms and high technology manufacturing; a busy Old Town commercial district, shopping centers, and lively local farmers’ markets; and diverse scenic views that include ocean and island vistas as well as the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains and foothills. The area provides for a range of opportunities for passive recreation and active sports including wine and beer tasting, hiking, cycling, bird watching, deep sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and cycling.

Goleta is located adjacent to the University of California, Santa Barbara, which is home to six Nobel Prize winners and is one of the leading research universities in America. As a result, the community hosts a number of high technology businesses specializing in aerospace, nanotechnology, environmental science, biochemistry, and information technology.

The current population of the City is 33,000 and the adopted General Plan allows for a build out population of approximately 38,000 by 2030. The City is racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse. The community has several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Goleta is fortunate to be served by excellent public and private primary and secondary schools that have a reputation for high academic achievement and quality instruction. The City of Goleta is a great place to live, work, and play!

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The City of Arvin adopted housing element was found to substantially comply with State Housing Element Law. The housing element lays down the foundation in which local governments identify strategies to accommodate their Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) objectives, collaborating closely with city staff, stakeholders, and community members to develop and execute program commitments. The fellow in this project will assist the City and surrounding areas in accessing HCD planning grant funds, and support policy and program development and planning document preparation with the City of Arvin and HCD.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. The goal is to accelerate the affordable housing rate in Arvin and facilitate its housing element programs. Additionally, the fellow will partake in extensive outreach events with the grants manager, prepare research as needed, assist with organizing outreach events, and prepare social media flyers for events.
2. The Civic Spark Fellow will also coordinate with the city planners, City engineer, and grants manager to ensure the implementation of Housing Element programs. The fellow will also be tasked with preparing Arvin’s annual progress report, (APR) which will be due to HCD in March 2026. This fellow will have guidance and oversight from the Planning Department for this task.
3. The City of Arvin desires to roll out the Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) and 2022 Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) housing rehabilitation programs’ subsequent phases, offering grants and forgivable loans to help residents bring their Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) up to code. The fellow will coordinate with City Staff and Self-Help enterprises to provide outreach support and presentations to ensure the program’s success. The fellow will have opportunities to participate in planning meetings for affordable housing projects and related infrastructure planning, KERN Council of Government (MPO) planning meetings, City council meetings, and outreach events. These will result in professional development opportunities to further the fellow’s career goals and exposure to government operations and metropolitan planning organizations
4. The City of Arvin is an Environmental Justice community with multiple environmental and socio-economic challenges. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the San Joaquin Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) have designated Arvin as an AB617 community. Due to significant financial constraints, the Civic Spark program is the City’s only means of procuring additional support staff for its housing programs. The resources the Civic Spark fellowship sponsorship provides will help increase Arvin’s capacity to address its challenges with minimal financial resources.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The City of Arvin is a small vibrant city located in Kern County, roughly 25 miles southeast of Bakersfield. The City is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including Bear mountain and the San Joaquin Valley. The City offers affordable housing options, unique community events, and plenty of outdoor actives.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The project will plan, design, and implement additional bike share station installations in AB 1550 low-income areas within the City of Santa Barbara.
1. This project will implement and manage a ~$1.5 million grant-funded project to increase access to affordable public bike share for low-income residents. The project will require working with the City of Santa Barbara, local non-profit and advocacy groups, the City’s permitted bike share operator, BCycle, and other community partners and jurisdictions.

2. The City has a public bike share system that launched in 2021 and recently hit over two million miles ridden on shared bikes. Unfortunately, neither the City nor the bike share operator, BCycle, have had time or budget to really build out the low-income membership program, and low-income users continue to be limited in number. To address this issue, the project will prioritize bringing bike share infrastructure to low-income areas in the City not currently served by BCycle, and conducting robust community engagement to low-income residents to promote and facilitate low-income utilization of the public bike share system. Successful outreach to lower-income populations may be challenging, with language and general hesitation regarding the use of banks and financial institutions acting as known barriers. Siting physical bike share locations in neighborhood settings has also proven challenging in the City.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. The overarching goal of the project is to implement and promote an improved low-income bike share membership program that builds on the foundation of the existing bike share program. The City of Santa Barbara will leverage grant funding from the Clean Mobility Options (CMO) Voucher Program to expand its all-electric bike share program, specifically targeting under-resourced communities in Santa Barbara. This initiative will add more public bike share docking stations and ebikes, enhance access for low-income populations, and promote biking as a sustainable transportation option. The grant funding will fund the installation of physical bike share infrastructure in AB 1550 designated low-income areas; develop, implement, and market a robust and streamlined low-income membership process, and provide annual low-income memberships for qualifying users.
This comprehensive effort aims to address the transportation challenges faced by
under-resourced residents in Santa Barbara and foster the use of the bike share program as a sustainable, affordable, and accessible transportation option.
2. The Fellow will assist in the planning, design, and early implementation phases of the grant program, and will be involved from the start in a holistic effort to leverage grant funding to bring tangible public benefit to an underserved population.
3. Desired project outcomes are an organized, grant-compliant strategy for implementation that stays within grant budget and required timelines. The Fellow will organize project timelines and document milestones, set up required meetings, track progress and budget, plan and conduct public outreach and ultimately help locate bike share stations in low-income areas in the City.
4. The City has expertise in implementing physical bike share, but needs fresh perspective to trouble shoot effective and efficient strategies to expand low-income ridership. The available grant funding combined with a Fellow dedicated to this project seem to remove two significant barriers to improving access to low-income bike share: lack of budget, and lack of staff time to conduct outreach, market the program, and manage the reporting components of a large grant-funded project.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Santa Barbara is a small coastal City in California with many cultural and recreational amenities. We have great beaches, excellent food, endless outdoor opportunities and an interesting Downtown. USCB is ten miles to our north, and we have a Santa Barbara Community College has a campus downtown by the Waterfront, so we have a dynamic musical and cultural scene. This program will require concerted outreach to Santa Barbara’s low-income demographics and help challenge the perspective that Santa Barbara is a wealthy enclave in California. There are a lot of residents that choose to live here, and make considerable sacrifices in doing so, and this posting will expose a Fellow to many economic and planning challenges facing similarly-sized communities in the state of California.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) is the sole public transit operator serving all of Monterey County. The four incorporated cities in the south county are rural in nature and lack adequate transit planning resources. The Cities of Gonzales, Soledad, Greenfield and King City are growing, as housing production expands the fastest in this part of the county, but better coordination is needed to link transportation and land use policies. The Fellow will support MST’s community engagement initiatives to improve mobility in the rural south county communities. One primary challenge this project aims to address is increasing the awareness of public transit resources in south county.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Goal of the Project: A dedicated and passionate advocate to immerse in South County transit planning, community relations, and community development.

Role:
1. In person, on-site at the 4 cities twice each month
2. Attend “cafecitos” and other informal community committee meetings geared at improving economic prosperity in the rural communities
3. Monitor transit service, analyze data and suggest outreach to improve ridership
4. Serve as a liaison between cities, local community groups and MST’s customer service team for outreach events and analysis of land use and transportation policies
5. Assist with launching taxi service where none currently exists

Desired Outcomes:
An initial report will be prepared by the Fellow to outline existing transit services, including current ridership data. The Fellow will work collaboratively with MST’s planning staff to develop a Community Outreach Plan that lays out the Fellow’s schedule for the program. The Fellow will maintain a log identifying weekly outreach efforts and the number of individuals contacted. The Fellow will be asked to analyze land use and transportation policies that the four south county cities develop. A Final Report will be prepared by the Fellow and presented to MST’s board of Directors. The Final Report will note how public transit usage changed as a result of targeted community engagement. The Fellow will also present recommendations in the Final Report to ensure long-term continued success of improved mobility and dynamic community engagement in south county.

Increasing MST’s Capacity:
Because MST has a limited planning staff, the Fellow will serve as an extension of agency staff to establish and launch a permanent transit planning presence in south Monterey County. The Fellow will help MST focus its future efforts in supporting the growth and economic prosperity of the four rural communities with meaningful land use and transportation policies.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

MST serves all of Monterey County which is a tourist destination and major agricultural producer. It is located along the central coast of California with most neighborhoods within a day trip distance from Monterey Bay Aquarium, Big Sur and Pinnacles National Park. The County has distinct communities, each with their own special characteristics. MST prides itself in offering affordable transportation to the many residents of the County to connect communities, create opportunities while being kind to our planet.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The role will assist the City of Irvine’s Environmental Programs Division with the climate action strategy for the City. This includes but is not limited to: policy research, stakeholder outreach, data collection, program compliance, policy development. The areas of focus include building decarbonization, plastic waste reduction, organic waste recycling, renewable energy development, and more.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. The goals of the project are to advance the City’s climate action and adaptation strategies in the sectors of energy, buildings, waste and transportation. This role will work to support multiple Citywide sustainability initiatives.
2. We provide our fellows with as much agency as possible- they will conduct independent research, be given opportunities for public speaking, the ability to conduct direct outreach with the community and more.
3. Project outcomes will include increased community outreach, policy research and data collection.
4. Our team is small but mighty and this fellow is critical to our team’s ability to pursue multiple programs and strategies.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Irvine is one of the ten largest cities in California, with a population of just over 300,00 which doubles each weekday due to it being a job center as well. We are home to a thriving clean-tech start up community, being the HQ of multiple EV and renewable energy companies. We are also home to UC Irvine, in which we collaborate frequently around sustainability and community involvement. We are a very diverse community and a foodie’s paradise, with eight official threshold languages being spoken. In addition, 1/3 of the City is permanently dedicated to open space; there are miles of wild hiking trails as well as over 200 miles of both urban and mountain bike trails. Beach cities like Laguna Beach and Newport Beach border us to the west, you can be there in under 30 minutes.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The selected CivicSpark Fellow will directly support Clean Power Alliance (CPA), the state’s largest community choice aggregator (CCA), a not-for-profit electricity provider serving 35 Southern California communities with clean energy options, with three (3) new communities coming onboard in October 2025. CPA has been named the number one green power provider in the United States by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory for two years in a row. Given our large service area, our partner communities have a wide-range of priorities and service needs. CPA would benefit from the research, planning, and implementation assistance a CivicSpark Fellow can provide to help us engage with our member agencies and stakeholders to identify the programs and approaches that are the best fit for each community.

CPA’s customer programs help enhance community resilience, conserve energy, reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions, and save residents and businesses money on their electric bills. The CivicSpark Fellow will support CPA’s Customer Programs and Government Affairs teams to build out community profiles that identify potential for aligning community priorities with our programming. The CivicSpark Fellow will fill a workforce need at CPA to help track funding opportunities that our member agencies are participating in to assess which areas could be complemented by our programs. Our goal is for this tracking assistance to help highlight which agencies need CPA’s funding and technical assistance, or may require additional grant funding support. This information will be shared with other CPA communities who have not yet engaged in our customer program offerings, or other funding opportunities, to highlight how decarbonization and other sustainability projects can be implemented.

The Fellow will also support engagement efforts with our member communities and community-based organizations across the service territory to learn and share innovative approaches to decarbonization. CPA has developed partnerships with several community organizations through the Community Benefit Grant, and as the Fellow engages with each partner community they may identify other organizations that are doing work that is aligned with CPA’s mission and goals.

The CivicSpark Fellow will be a valued member of our small team, and experience first-hand our organization’s motto as we work collaboratively to decarbonize our communities: Change is electric. Together, we power potential.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The overarching goals of this project are to increase capacity to implement impactful programs for CPA customers, and to share information that will help empower all CPA member agencies envision and implement a decarbonized future for their communities.

The role of the CivicSpark Fellow will include research, comparative program analysis, report-writing, engagement with CPA staff and member agency representatives across our wide-service area, and participation in CPA and stakeholder events. A CivicSpark Fellow will assist with the following two projects:

1. Support Implementation of CPA Programs to Illustrate Benefits of Clean Energy Programming

A Fellow will augment the limited staff capacity at CPA and enhance our ability to provide better services to our customers. The Fellow will support CPA’s Energized Communities program which serves its member communities, and CPA’s Community Benefit Grant (CBG) to assist in coordination with community-based organizations helping to promote CPA’s programs.

The Fellow will assist with implementation of CPA’s Innovation Fund, ensuring the current projects are progressing and supporting the launch of the second round of funding by participating in stakeholder webinars, reviewing applications, and summarizing project status. The Fellow will also support the CBG annual funding opportunity to help engage local non-profit organizations to apply for the funding. The Fellow will help coordinate with awardees to support their participation in the program, and create metrics and analytics tracking tools in order to better understand impacts of the grants. The Fellow can expect to gain a good understanding of the grant management process and identify projects that may be scalable to other communities. The Fellow can also assist with review and assessment of the metrics collected at CPA’s public engagement events.

The Fellow will monitor several key program milestones, and support the Customer Programs team implement programs that help our customers transition to low-carbon practices that enhance resilience, equity, and economic vitality. The Fellow will participate in data assessment and program research to support metrics development for CPA’s Customer Programs and identify other measures or reporting areas that may be needed.

2. Identify Sustainability Program Best Practices for CPA’s Partner Communities
The Fellow will contribute to a database capturing the sustainability policies and funding resources CPA member agencies are currently employing, including grants, to implement decarbonization projects in their communities. The Fellow will conduct program research to identify connections to CPA’s existing programming, and highlight community needs and priorities that may lead to future programming to further decarbonization programs in CPA’s service area. This information will be shared across CPA’s teams to identify community priorities that can be supported by CPA’s programming. The Fellow can expect to become familiar with the types of decarbonization and sustainability programs being implemented throughout CPA’s service territory, and develop experience with data system management and reporting out findings to CPA management.

The best practices identified will be shared with member agencies that can benefit from lessons learned in other communities that may assist in moving their decarbonization projects forward. The Fellow can expect to strengthen project management skills, gain experience working with local governments and stakeholders across CPA’s service territory, and develop a clear understanding of how a Community Choice Aggregator (CCA) operates and the role it plays in clean energy procurement and delivery of key customer programs.

CivicSpark assistance engaging with CPA’s member agency stakeholders and key community-based organizations across our large service territory will increase agency capacity and support program implementation. The Fellow will collaborate with and support CPA staff leading customer programs, help identify areas for improvement, and highlight other program needs observed from stakeholder input and through program research.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

CPA is a not-for-profit electricity provider that invests in the communities we serve by funding programs to help customers save money, creating resiliency projects that strengthen critical infrastructure, and training the local workforce for jobs in renewable energy. We serve a broad and diverse set of communities throughout the counties of Los Angeles and Ventura, in Southern California. Each of our 38 member communities has something interesting to highlight. And the CivicSpark Fellow will have the opportunity to learn more about each community in-depth through the development of the community program profiles.

In-office work will take place in downtown Los Angeles, surrounded by everything the major downtown area has to offer. The office is close to transit and also offers free on-site parking with EV chargers.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The City of Monterey Park seeks a CivicSpark Fellow to serve as a City Communications Fellow, enhancing communication between the City and its diverse community members. The fellow will support Monterey Park’s City Manager’s Office, assisting in sharing critical information about city services, emergency preparedness, health and well-being and community engagement opportunities through various communication channels.

This project addresses local needs by increasing the City’s ability to engage multilingual and multigenerational audiences, ensuring equitable access to essential information. The fellow will assist in developing digital content, managing social media outreach and creating multilingual resources to improve civic participation and service awareness.

Key community challenges include language accessibility, digital equity, and public awareness of available services. The fellow will help implement communication strategies that address these gaps, ensuring that all Monterey Park residents—regardless of language or background—receive timely, accurate, and actionable information.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Project Title:
Engaging Monterey Park: Strengthening Public Communication for an Informed and Connected Community

Overarching Goals of the Project:
The goal of this project is to enhance the City of Monterey Park’s ability to effectively communicate with its diverse community regarding city services, emergency preparedness, health and well-being and community engagement opportunities. By improving communication strategies and accessibility, this project aims to increase public awareness and participation in city programs, ensuring all residents—regardless of language or digital literacy—have equitable access to critical information.

Role of the Fellow in the Project:
The CivicSpark Fellow will play a key role in expanding and refining the City’s outreach efforts by:

• Developing multilingual digital and print content to communicate city initiatives more effectively.
• Enhancing the City’s social media presence to engage a wider audience.
• Creating outreach strategies for initiatives.
• Assisting in community engagement events and strengthening relationships with local organizations.

Desired Project Outcomes:
By the end of the fellowship, the following resources and deliverables will be developed:

• Multilingual outreach materials and templates (digital, print, and video) to ensure effective communication across diverse communities.
• An improved media engagement strategy to enhance real-time communication and community interaction.
• Integrated and cohesive communications strategies across City departments
• An updated and improved city website

How These Resources Will Increase the Agency’s Capacity:
These resources will significantly strengthen the City’s ability to connect with residents by improving accessibility, engagement, and efficiency in public communication. A well-developed communications strategy will ensure Monterey Park residents stay informed about city services, emergency updates, and community resources, ultimately fostering a more engaged, resilient, and informed community.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Monterey Park is a vibrant and diverse community located in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, just east of downtown Los Angeles. Known for its rich cultural heritage, thriving small businesses, and strong sense of community, Monterey Park offers residents a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience.

Our City is home to one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the country, with a strong Asian American influence reflected in its renowned culinary scene, cultural festivals and multilingual services.

Beyond its cultural vibrancy, Monterey Park is committed to civic engagement and community, creating an environment where residents feel connected and engaged. Monterey Park’s commitment to inclusive governance and innovation makes it an ideal place for CivicSpark Fellows to gain hands-on experience in public service, community outreach, and strategic communication while making a tangible impact on the lives of residents.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) is a joint powers authority located in the southwest region of Los Angeles County with members of 16 cities and the South Bay portions of Los Angeles County. Members share the goal of maximizing the quality of life and productivity of the South Bay sub-region. The sub-region is diverse in geography, population, ethnicity, industry, and climate zones. Residential areas include both disadvantaged (based on CalEnviroscreen4.0 and the Healthy Places Index) and affluent communities – each with their own challenges. With much ethnic diversity, several languages are spoken.

The SBCCOG’s priorities include reducing energy costs, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, protecting air quality and public health, and adapting to extreme climate events. These priorities have previously been addressed through the development of a Sub-Regional Climate Action Plan and Adaptation Plan; assistance for member cities in developing their own CAP and vulnerability assessments; and updating the greenhouse gas emissions inventory to assess achievements.  One of the main focuses of this work is implementation of energy efficiency at government facilities and other community buildings. These agencies require assistance in assessing, identifying, and implementing energy efficiency projects.  Due to limited staff time and resources, these agencies need significant support. To help address this need, the SBCCOG formed a partnership with the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) and SoCalGas. Through this partnership, public agencies can access resources to help reduce energy use. The Fellow will support and manage various SoCalREN and SoCalGas energy initiatives. As a result, cities will further their climate action and adaptation planning and activities.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Fellow will work with at least 15 South Bay public agencies, including various school districts, water agencies, and the cities of Carson, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and Torrance. The Fellow will engage with key stakeholders and help agencies access energy efficiency and decarbonization resources provided through the SoCalREN and SoCalGas.

Engagement, with guidance from SBCCOG staff, requires facilitating and attending meetings with agencies, helping obtain energy data and agency documents, analyzing data, providing energy efficiency options to agencies, promoting agency accomplishments, encouraging, and assisting with city participation in the South Bay Climate & Energy Awards, and working with volunteers to facilitate program delivery.  Engagement may also include presentations to elected officials and high-level management.

Desired project outcomes include heightened engagement that fuels increased energy efficiency action and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, successful completion of projects will result in increased public agency knowledge of facility energy profiles, and documentation of agency energy efficiency needs. Additionally, project outcomes will include greater city acknowledgement for energy action leadership within the South Bay.

Based on resource restraints facing our regional public agencies, the work of the CivicSpark Fellow will increase the South Bay’s advancement toward energy efficiency goals and implementation, as laid out in the Sub-Regional CAP and Adaptation Plan. The Fellow will facilitate the offering of various energy programs and services that regional public agencies would not otherwise receive.

The CivicSpark Fellow will engage with key stakeholders and help agencies access energy efficiency and decarbonization resources provided through the SoCalREN. Commercial initiatives and public sector programs will be promoted by the Fellow throughout the service term.

In addition, the Fellow will prioritize helping disadvantaged communities access advanced SoCalREN services beyond basic energy efficiency support such as residential direct install of energy-efficient electric appliances to ensure that these communities are not left behind with the changing energy landscape. Disadvantaged communities are identified through CalEnviroscreen 4.0.

Building on South Bay Cities Council of Governments past initiatives, this upcoming program year will be centered around determining cool surfaces feasibility for municipal facilities, benchmarking building energy use in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, and facilitating greater access to energy efficiency resources for agencies in the South Bay, including disadvantaged communities. The Fellow will assist with vulnerability assessments to help target energy efficiency incentive programs for underserved communities. This year’s Fellow will also focus on agency and special districts outreach, technical agency support, data collection, agency SoCalREN enrollment, and data analysis.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Serving with the SBCCOG will provide opportunities to work with stakeholders across various public agencies, utilities, and non-profits in Southern California. Networking activities are abundant, along with the opportunity to develop new skills. The fellow will leave the service year with personal references and projects under their belt to add to a professional portfolio.

The South Bay region is an interesting place to live and work due to its economic and cultural diversity as well as its varying geography – inland, coastal, and hillside communities. Local neighborhoods and towns have unique styles and a variety of food, museums/historical sites, cultural activities, and recreation areas.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) is a joint powers authority in the southwest region of Los Angeles County with members of 16 cities and the South Bay portions of Los Angeles County. Members share the goal of maximizing the quality of life and productivity of the South Bay sub-region. The sub-region is diverse in geography, population, ethnicity, industry, and climate zones. Residential areas include both disadvantaged (based on CalEnviroscreen 4.0) and affluent communities – each with their own challenges. With much ethnic diversity, several languages are spoken.

In 2003, the SBCCOG created the South Bay Environmental Services Center (SBESC) with the hopes of reducing energy costs and sharing sustainable resources with the South Bay sub-region. The SBESC’s mission is to serve the subregion’s constituents as the central hub for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, renewable energy, and transportation by providing information, programs, projects, and strategies as well as resources to cities, businesses, property owners, and residents. These objectives are met through collaboration with partner agencies who come together to develop, implement, and promote programs. The SBCCOG’s partnerships include Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, SoCal Gas, Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN), Water Replenishment District, and West Basin Municipal Water District. Through these partnerships, the SBCCOG and the SBESC provide information, programs, projects, strategies, and resources to cities, businesses, property owners, and residents. The Fellow will support and manage various community engagement and communication initiatives. As a result, these groups will be better informed of opportunities to contribute to climate action and adaptation efforts in their communities.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Under the direction of the SBCCOG, the Fellow will work with at least 15 South Bay public agencies, including utility and water agencies, sanitation districts, County of Los Angeles, and the cities of Carson, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and Torrance. The Fellow will engage with key stakeholders and conduct outreach to help cities, property owners, businesses, and residents access sustainability resources provided through the SBCCOG SBESC program and many partnerships. As a result, the Fellow will determine the key needs and gaps in the SBCCOG’s outreach and engagement efforts. The Fellow’s primary responsibilities will include:

• Coordinate the SBESC/SBCCOG presence at a minimum of 12 community outreach events to promote programs for water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, organic waste handling, extreme heat, etc. This activity includes helping to find event locations, communicating with partners and event staff, establishing/tracking outreach goals, and implementing marketing strategies.
• Collaborate with SBCCOG staff to develop educational outreach language, graphics, flyers, social media posts, etc.
• Guide volunteers in conducting outreach and facilitating partner program delivery.
• Assist in maintaining lists of events and stakeholder contacts and engagement activities.
• Organize SBESC/SBCCOG event supplies and work with SBCCOG staff to order replacements as needed.
• Regularly share updates with SBCCOG marketing and outreach staff and record notes at meetings
• Serve as a positive representative for SBESC/SBCCOG at community events and in communications with public agencies.

At the end of the service term, the desired project outcomes are:

• At least 12 new community outreach events coordinated by the Fellow.
• New outreach materials and social media reports to analyze interaction and engagement data.
• Updated event participant and stakeholder contact lists and strategies for retaining participant contacts.

Under the SBESC, program staff work with partner agencies to implement environmental programs with cities both large and small. In doing so, smaller communities such as the cities of Rolling Hills or Lomita that are unable to prioritize sustainability communications due to cost and staff capacity can also achieve energy and water savings.

Additionally, the CivicSpark Fellow will help agencies with disadvantaged communities to access sustainability resources to help ensure that these communities are not left behind. Disadvantaged communities are identified through CalEnviroscreen 4.0. Through these efforts, the CivicSpark Fellow will help create equal access to sustainability resources to increase the South Bay’s health and well-being, as well as to reduce its environmental footprint.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Serving with the SBCCOG will provide opportunities to work with stakeholders across various public agencies, utilities, and non-profits in Southern California. Networking activities are abundant, along with the opportunity to develop new skills. The fellow will leave the service year with personal references and projects under their belt to add to a professional portfolio.

The South Bay region is an interesting place to live and work due to its economic and cultural diversity as well as its varying geography – inland, coastal, and hillside communities. Local neighborhoods and towns have unique styles and a variety of food, museums/historical sites, cultural activities, and recreation areas.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Los Angeles County Public Works (PW), the largest Public Works agency in the nation, builds and maintains a wide range of infrastructure related to water, transportation, waste, and public buildings. PW serves an important role as a steward for sustainability, while striving to meet the high expectations of the PW Strategic Plan, Los Angeles County’s OurCounty Sustainability Plan, and 2045 Climate Action Plan (CAP).

With nearly 10 million residents and 88 cities, Los Angeles County’s demographic and geographic diversity, along with socio-economic and cultural factors, present many challenges and opportunities related to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Climate change in Los Angeles County includes more frequent and severe heat waves and wildfires, worsening air quality, and increasing severe rainfall or drought, all of which disproportionately impact underserved communities and communities of color.

PW is leading the Climate Ready Communities initiative (CRC) to build resilience in areas where climate vulnerability is highest. The initiative is informed by the Los Angeles County Climate Vulnerability Assessment and will focus on addressing risks associated with extreme heat, wildfire, drought, inland flooding, and coastal flooding. CRC aims to build resilience, reduce vulnerability, and foster equitable outcomes in the face of climate change to ensure that communities are better prepared to withstand and recover from climate-related challenges. CRC will prioritize advancing equity and environmental justice by focusing on communities disproportionately impacted by climate hazards.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Climate Ready Public Works Implementation and Roadmap is an internal effort that intends to cultivate a culture where sustainability and resiliency are incorporated into all of PW planning, design, operations, maintenance, and procedures. This effort will help PW better understand our role in supporting our communities while ensuring our projects and services build resilience, reduce vulnerability, and prioritize equity and environmental justice.

To guide this effort, PW has developed an Internal Communications Plan (ICP) to assess existing and recommended PW resiliency and sustainability policies, practices, initiatives, services, and projects to better support unincorporated communities that are most vulnerable to climate change.

The Fellows will play a critical role to implement the ICP by supporting extensive coordination of internal engagement efforts with PW Business Branches and Divisions to inform the development of a PW Strategic Action Roadmap (Roadmap). The Roadmap will guide the integration of sustainability and resiliency into core PW functions and will include components such as: a Sustainability Management Plan, Sustainable Procurement Policy, Monitoring and Maintenance Plan, and updating PW’s Envision Planning Process. Additionally, the Fellows will coordinate with the Council for Watershed Health, community-based organizations, and tribal partners to support community engagement efforts that will be critical to understanding vulnerable communities’ lived experiences with climate risks as well as their needs and priorities in developing resilient infrastructure projects.

In light of the recent Los Angeles fires and their significant impact to the communities that we serve, this work is more critical than ever. Addressing resilience through infrastructure planning and community engagement is essential to mitigating future climate risks and ensure that Public Works projects support long-term sustainability, resiliency, and climate equity as we help rebuild areas of LA County.

As part of the Climate Ready Public Works Implementation and Roadmap, the Fellows will also support the implementation of a sustainability planning framework. Currently, PW uses Envision as a sustainability framework and rating system to evaluate PW infrastructure projects and programs. The Fellows will assist with integrating Envision into project planning through reviewing projects and providing recommendations for areas of improvement. As the Fellows become more familiar with the Envision Framework and various County and PW Plans, they will help strategize and develop a repository for programmatic-level Envision credits.

In an effort to support the County in achieving carbon neutrality and building resilience for unincorporated communities, the Fellows will also assist with data collection and development of PW’s 2024 Operational Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory and analyze emissions reduction progress and strategize additional opportunities to further reduce emissions.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Los Angeles County Public Works (PW) is the largest Public Works agency in the nation, serving more than 10 million people across a 4,000-square-mile regional service area. Public Works has a vision to become the most trusted public agency in the region and a mission to plan, design, build, and maintain modern infrastructure that uplifts all communities of Los Angeles County.

Working for PW, specifically with the Strategic Planning and Sustainability Office, will be a great opportunity for the Fellow to experience working for a large, professional government agency. The Fellow will have the opportunity to understand the entire agency, including the broad range of services PW provides and infrastructure PW manages, collaborate with professional engineers, and build subject-matter-expertise on Sustainability.

The Fellow will also learn real-world sustainability plans and framework implementation and enhance other skills like translating data into tangible and meaningful results that will lead PW to become a more sustainable agency.

Los Angeles County is one of the nation’s largest counties with 4,084 square miles and has the largest population of any county in the nation – nearly 10 million residents who account for approximately 27 percent of California’s population. Public Works serves the unincorporated areas within LA County which consists of 2,638 square miles.

LA County is also one of the most diverse regions in the US.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The Gateway Cities Council of Government (GCCOG) Fellows will work with the Regional Development Director to lead efforts related to housing, conduct research and data collection, assist the Council of Government’s (COG) member cities in accessing HCD planning grant funds, and support policy and program development and planning document preparation with the COG and HCD. The GCCOG has 27 member cities, as a liaison the fellow will assist in the development of new region-wide strategies and foster collaboration across city boundaries.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. The Fellow will assist interested Gateway Cities in understanding the purpose and function of Community Land Trust (CLT)s in preventing resident displacement and maintaining ongoing housing affordability in a community.
2. Working with COG staff, the Fellow will identify Gateway Cities interested in considering developing Community Land Trusts for land and/or housing acquisition, creation and preservation. The Fellow will compile available literature/existing studies, and formation documents Community Land Trusts, complete interviews of existing CLT leaders, and summarize key information for local decision makers.
3. The Fellow will present research to local jurisdictions and create case studies describing existing CLTs in LA County, and beyond, including their funders, stakeholders, structure, scope, policies, and impact. Should specific questions emerge from initial presentations, Fellow will conduct follow up research and provide additional information. Fellow may also compile model formation documents and bylaws for existing CLTs that local jurisdictions can use to assist them in developing new organizations.
4. The members of the gateway cities have patterns of housing preservation issues, the GCCOG will lead strategies that lead to anti-displacement, and housing preservation tools. In addition, the analysis of this data can lead to regional and local strategies that can be shared amongst various local jurisdictions.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The Gateway Cities of Council of Governments (GCCOG) consist of 27-member jurisdiction in Southeast LA County. The headquarters are located in Paramount, California. You are within a 20 mile radius of downtown LA, 15 mile radius mile of several Los Angeles County beaches, and home to several diverse communities. You will have various opportunity to travel to nearby cities and orange county to explore new foods, music, and iconic landmarks in Southern California.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The City of Vista is a vibrant and diverse community, and city staff are dedicated to providing exceptional services to improving Vista’s quality of life and to enhance the uniqueness of the Vista community. The City Council goals for the city include a cleaner, more beautiful Vista and climate and Environmental responsibility. The City of Vista’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) was updated in 2021 and addresses the challenges of climate change in the city. In addition to the CAP, the City also facilitates other environmental programs like a tree giveaway, e-bike safety trainings, green business network, recycling & organics waste outreach, and more. This project will help expand the City of Vista’s environmental programs and allow for new opportunities to arise for its residents and businesses. Currently the environmental programs are led by a singular staff member, with a few others who help where they can, so having an additional support member fully dedicated to Vista’s environmental programs will help continue the programs that are already running and expand upon them. The Civic spark fellow will work with not only the Climate Action Plan Administrator in the City Manager’s Office, but also have interactions with the Public Works department, the county, the school district, and be able to participate in regional meetings with other climate-based organizations.

The City of Vista, as the rest of the world, has been experiencing changing weather like extreme heat, more frequent fires, and longer rainy seasons. The City has been working to implement its current CAP as well as initiated other programs to help support its community in combatting these environmental challenges our residents, businesses and visitors face. This project will help the city expand their education and outreach efforts on single use plastics reduction and the city’s Styrofoam ban for food service providers, administratively support the City’s residential tree program and expanding it to HOA’s and businesses, supporting Vista’s green business network and working with the Chamber of Commerce, and much more. In addition, this project will help support any public facing Sustainability event efforts, the City’s Environmental Commission, support administrative needs for grant awards and other environmental programs and help the City gear up for a Climate Action Plan Update in 2026.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This position would help with several programs under the umbrella of Climate Action Planning and Sustainability in the City of Vista. The overarching goal of the project is to keep Vista beautiful, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase community interest, education, awareness, and participation in the sustainability efforts of the city. The role of the fellow in this project will be to help administratively support all programs as well as provide customer service and education and outreach to the community. With the help of a fellow, the City will be able to expand their current environmental work and ensure that there is equal access and opportunity to engage in these programs for all of Vista’s community.

Ideally with the support of a Civic Spark Fellow the City can engage more with targeted groups like businesses for our Green Business Network, organics recycling program, and Styrofoam Ban, and homeowners for the Residential Tree Giveaway and outreach events, or environmental groups to come present at an Environmental Commission meeting. They will help create outreach materials, work to market our current programs, write reports on program successes and failures, and work with internal and external stakeholders toward a more sustainable Vista and implement Vista’s Climate Action Plan. With the help of a Civic Spark Fellow, the City will be able to provide additional outreach to our residents and businesses to increase interest and awareness of sustainability programs, and the progress the City has made on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These resources will help expand upon where the city is at right now, as well as create opportunities for more grant funding of these programs as their success is measured and reported upon. In addition, increasing the outreach, and assisting with CAP implementation will increase the City’s resiliency toward higher temperatures, increased rain events, and keeping Vista beautiful.

Lastly, as the City works on their CAP Update in 2026, a Civic Spark Fellow will help with community engagement, project facilitation, and project reporting/updates. This includes marketing for the update, advertising the workshops, interacting with the community and working with consultants, commissions, and council.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Vista is a diverse community of residents, businesses, industry and open space. We serve a primarily English and Spanish speaking community where everyone is able to have their voice heard. Vista grew from agricultural roots, and farming and agriculture are still important aspects of our community to this day. We have a range from rural/semi-rural areas to high density commercial and industrial areas. The City of Vista is a Charter Law city and was incorporated in 1963, it is located seven miles inland from the Pacific Ocean in northern San Diego County and has been knows for a mild Mediterranean climate. Residents and visitors enjoy a wide range of year-round outdoor activities from biking, walking, skating, disc golf, farmers markets and more. Vista has been known to be the craft beer capital but also is very supportive of recreational cannabis use.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

This project aims to enhance the City of Oceanside’ capacity to address climate-related challenges through community outreach, grant support, and data analysis. Specifically, this position will assist with monitoring progress of measures related to the City’s updated Climate Action Plan and developing methods to increase community engagement and awareness of related projects.

The primary agency served is the City of Oceanside, which requires support in developing community surveys to measure awareness of climate goals, creating digital outreach, staffing engagement events, conducting research and developing digestible public reports. This will help the city build its organizational capacity for community engagement around sustainability initiatives and maintain consistent progress reporting on the Climate Action Plan.

The project addresses local and regional climate adaptation goals such as the need for renewable energy infrastructure expansion, identifying and evaluating funding opportunities for transportation management, EV infrastructure expansion and habitat and working lands conservation initiatives. Additionally, this work will address historical social equity issues by mapping and analyzing the distribution of solar PV, EV charging, and building electrification to identify underserved areas and inform future policy direction. This ensures that incentives are directed where they are most needed, promoting equitable access to climate-related developments.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Community Outreach and Education

The primary goal is to boost community awareness and involvement of climate goals and strategies within the City’s Climate Action Plan. This includes creating surveys to gauge awareness, developing digital outreach materials, and staffing engagement events. Additionally, the project aims to establish and enhance strong connections between the City and local business community to foster relationships key to voluntary sustainability measures in the private sector.

The Fellow will be tasked with designing and distributing community surveys, creating digital outreach content, and participating in community engagement events. They will also collaborate with local businesses to support the development of the Green Business Network should funding and staff resources allow.

The anticipated outcomes are comprehensive survey reports, a collection of digital outreach materials, and an understanding of current community awareness to help inform the development of incentive programs critical to the Climate Action Plan.
These resources will provide valuable data and insights to inform program development and policy decisions aimed at the private sector, across the core climate categories of building electrification, transportation management, renewable energy, water conservation, solid waste and work land preservation. By engaging the business community, the city will be better equipped to tackle climate-related challenges and promote sustainable practices.

Grant Support

The objective is to identify attractive funding opportunities and assist with applications for a range of climate-related initiatives, such as transportation management, EV infrastructure, habitat conservation, and renewable energy incentives.

The Fellow will play a key role in identifying, researching, ranking and evaluating funding opportunities, and may also assist with grant writing to secure these funds.

Expected outcomes include the buildout of the City’s Sustainability Program grant tracking tool (a comprehensive list of potential funding sources), detailed grant proposals, and successful grant applications.

Securing this funding will enable the city to implement and expand climate-related projects, thereby enhancing its capacity to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability.

Community Data Analysis and Research

The aim is to better understand the community’s inventory and distribution of key climate-related features, such as solar PV, EV charging stations, and building electrification.

The Fellow will be responsible for conducting mapping and analysis to pinpoint areas that lack these features and need additional incentives. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) experience is highly desirable for the successful candidate.

The expected outcomes are detailed maps and analysis reports that identify underserved areas and suggest where incentives should be focused.

These resources will offer essential data to guide future policy decisions and ensure that incentives are effectively targeted, promoting equitable access to climate-related developments.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Oceanside has a highly rated livability factor with an advantageous coastal locale, a thriving downtown scene, and easy access to both San Diego and Los Angeles as it is centered along a regional major transportation corridor. Oceansiders enjoy one of the most desirable climates in the country, with sunshine and coastal breezes nearly every day, plenty of open space, miles of beautiful palm-lined beaches, unique architecture, historic buildings, and an efficient transportation hub. Oceanside offers professionals some of the most affordable housing in coastal Southern California with a wide variety of housing options from beach cottages and urban condos to estate homes and agricultural properties, making Oceanside a highly sought-after community. The local economy is robust with a low unemployment rate; future Oceanside job growth is projected to be 18% over the next ten years. Oceanside offers an array of exciting hands-on recreational opportunities such as surfing, museums, bike trails, whale-watching tours, skydiving, fine dining, and much more. The “beachy” culture, lively neighborhoods, historic architecture, wonderful people, art and live theatre, and the thriving culinary scene make Oceanside an attractive place to live, work, play, and stay! With tourism as a major industry, Oceanside attracts over 5 million visitors annually to enjoy the relaxing beaches, charming harbor, pier, Mission San Luis Rey, and other attractions. Around 54,000 people work in Oceanside, plus over 4,000 civilian jobs are located at Camp Pendleton, which borders Oceanside to the north.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

This CivicSpark fellow would serve the City of Encinitas and work as a team member within the City’s Sustainability Division. This division oversees the implementation of the City’s Climate Action Plan (CAP). The City’s CAP includes 20 very ambitious measures that the City will accomplish to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Increasingly high demands are being placed on this division to achieve progress on a number of specific projects. With a focus on these critical projects, limited time is left for the more indirect, but still important components of the Climate Action Plan– specifically public outreach and progress tracking.

The City of Encinitas understands that it is not able to achieve its Climate Action Plan targets without the support of the community at large. It is essential to have residents and businesses take part in reducing emissions. The CivicSpark Fellow would take the lead on engaging the community in this effort.

Encinitas has an active public that would very much like to participate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the City is missing key staff that have dedicated time to connect the Climate Action Plan to the public. By sponsoring a CivicSpark Fellow, the City of Encinitas would be able to address public outreach from multiple angles. The fellow will focus on CAP outreach and reporting and will head a campaign to directly engage the public in supporting the City’s climate initiatives. The fellow would also track and publicly report the City’s progress toward emissions reduction. This two-pronged approach will create the positive feedback loop of emissions reduction that the City lacks.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The prospective fellow will work in the city’s Sustainability Division and will be responsible for helping implement the City’s Climate Action Plan. This includes initiating and completing various measures prescribed in the plan, conducting outreach, and reporting on implementation progress. The prospective fellow will play a leading role in engaging the Encinitas community to become involved in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Utilizing an Outreach Toolkit, the prospective fellow will implement outreach activities throughout the service year and refine the toolkit as needed. Outreach will include both in-person and virtual events, as appropriate, to captivate residents and businesses and encourage them to be a part of the climate solution. Concurrently, to build capacity in the Sustainability Division, the fellow will utilize the City’s CAP Monitoring Protocol to track and measure progress being made toward Climate Action Plan targets. The City’s Climate Action Plan has specific numeric targets which must be achieved by 2030. This fellow will support staff by assisting with data collection and tracking, as well as reporting progress on the City’s Climate Dashboard and helping to complete the annual CAP Monitoring Report.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

With a population of 60,000 people, the City of Encinitas has something for everyone. With its pristine beaches and rolling hills, famous Botanic Garden and vibrant downtown business district, the City of Encinitas attracts visitors from all over the world.

The century-old Downtown 101 coastal shopping district features historic architecture, quaint shops, sidewalk cafes, specialty retail stores and upscale restaurants.

Encinitas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Each year, surfers from all over gather in Encinitas to compete in local surfing tournaments. The San Elijo Lagoon boasts the largest coastal wetland in San Diego County and is home to nearly 300 different bird species throughout the year.

The warm California sunshine provides for year-round enjoyment of our beautiful parks, beaches and trails and makes Encinitas a spectacular place to live, work, and visit.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN) supports its member agencies, the 52 cities and 2 counties across the Inland Empire (Riverside and San Bernardino counties) with a variety of energy efficiency resources. This fellow will support providing the much-needed capacity that many of our member agencies need, which is specific support toward energy efficiency projects. This includes projects like designing and implementing tomorrow’s energy workforce programs – tailored for our unique subregion – today.

Building local talent with a focus on energy efficiency will support state environmental goals as well as local economic development goals.

This Fellow will support I-REN member agencies in “leading by example” by assisting in various energy efficiency projects, and by providing that sustainability expertise to the surrounding communities. Additionally, fellows will create relationship with local communities and provide outreach of additional I-REN energy initiatives (workforce trainings, certification/accreditation programs) and city resources to the communities (underserved, rural, hard-to-reach) that need them most.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Overarching goal of the project and role of the Fellow is to work with the current team on the deployment and implementation of the prioritized recommendation identifies in the I-REN energy focused workforce gaps assessment (published in January 2025).

These recommendations will then be utilized, by the Fellow, to design and implement the next phase of workforce programs and resources deployed by I-REN across Riverside and San Bernardino counties. These programs will support in providing connections and pathways to high-road careers, training and support services in the energy efficiency space within the region.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The Inland Regional Energy Network brings a wide range of energy efficiency resources to 52 cities, 78 unincorporated county areas, and 17 tribes across Riverside and San Bernardino counties — totaling 11% of California’s population.

At roughly 4.2 Million in population, our subregion is more populous than 23 states.

At 27,000 square miles, the I-REN community is roughly the size of South Carolina. I-REN’s geography has created an exciting regional atmosphere where each city, community, has its own unique interested, needs, and perspectives.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The City of Corona serves its disadvantaged communities by investing in their safety infrastructure, appearance and economy. Of the 68 edge-lit light emitting diodes street name signs, 57 will be placed in disadvantaged community in the City of Corona, per the climate and economic justice screening tool.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Light Emitting Diodes have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional lighting solutions. By reducing energy consumption, this project indirectly contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment in disadvantaged communities often disproportionately affected by pollution. LED lights provide better visibility than tradition lights, which is crucial for pedestrian and vehicular safety. improved traffic signal visibility can reduce accidents, particularly in areas with inadequate street lighting, directly benefiting residents of disadvantaged communities.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the City of Corona is a thriving community known for its rich history, diverse population, and scenic surroundings. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and close to both Los Angeles and Riverside, Corona offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The city has seen significant growth in recent years, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live and work.

Corona is a family-friendly city with excellent schools, parks, and recreational opportunities, making it a great place to raise children or enjoy an active lifestyle. Residents take pride in their close-knit community, which is supported by a range of local events, farmers’ markets, and cultural festivals that celebrate its diversity and history. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golf, or prefer exploring local museums and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone.

Why Corona is an Interesting Place to Live and Work:

Living and working in the City of Corona offers a unique opportunity to experience both the charm of small-town life and the energy of a growing city. With its central location, you’ll be able to easily access the many attractions and career opportunities that Southern California has to offer, including the nearby mountains, beaches, and entertainment hubs.

For Fellows, Corona provides a distinctive learning environment. You’ll gain experience working in a city that is focused on sustainable growth, community engagement, and public service. The city’s collaborative and inclusive culture offers valuable hands-on experience, making it an ideal place for professional development. Fellows will also benefit from the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the residents and the future of the community.

In short, the City of Corona is a vibrant, welcoming place to live and work, with ample opportunities for both personal and professional growth. The city’s unique mix of community spirit, natural beauty, and economic potential makes it an exciting destination for anyone looking to make a positive difference in local government.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) oversees San Bernardino Valley College and Crafton Hills College, serving as the primary agency for this project. The district is committed to improving campus efficiency, reducing resource consumption, and enhancing operational resilience. As SBCCD modernizes its facilities, it focuses on energy efficiency and expanding transportation options to create a healthy and functional environment for students, staff, and the broader community. This project will address those needs by having the Fellow provide research, data analysis, and recommendations to support SBCCD’s long-term infrastructure improvements.

Energy Efficiency & Resilience
SBCCD is dedicated to enhancing energy efficiency and strengthening infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted campus operations and a stable learning environment. Power disruptions affect students, faculty, and staff, making energy reliability a top priority. To address this, SBCCD is upgrading campus infrastructure, improving energy management, and expanding on-site generation. The Fellow will support these efforts by analyzing energy usage, identifying opportunities for improvement, and contributing to initiatives that enhance reliability and efficiency across district facilities.

Transportation & EV Infrastructure
SBCCD is expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and enhancing transportation options. The district is increasing the availability of EV charging stations for students, staff, and visitors while also promoting alternative commuting solutions, including public transit access, biking infrastructure, and carpool programs to reduce single-occupancy vehicle use. The Fellow will contribute by evaluating transportation projects, identifying funding opportunities, and assisting with project coordination to support SBCCD’s long-term mobility goals.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Overarching Goals:
The goal of this project is to enhance SBCCD’s energy use, resource management, and operational efficiency. By implementing these initiatives, SBCCD aims to create a more functional, cost-effective, and accessible campus environment for students, staff, and the broader community. This project will build the district’s capacity to assess and implement infrastructure improvements, ensuring long-term benefits for campus operations.

Role of the Fellow:
The Fellow will work closely with the SBCCD Facilities, Planning & Construction team, engaging with district stakeholders and external partners to support infrastructure and operational improvements. Their role includes:

• Assessing energy efficiency by analyzing campus energy consumption, identifying areas for improvement, and recommending strategies to enhance reliability and reduce costs.
• Evaluating transportation initiatives, assisting in the expansion of electric vehicle charging stations, and supporting efforts to improve commuting options.

Desired Project Outcomes:
By the end of the service term, the Fellow will help develop:

• Reports and assessments on energy efficiency and transportation.
• Actionable recommendations to improve campus resource management and infrastructure resilience.
• Outreach and engagement materials to inform students, staff, and faculty about energy and resource conservation efforts.
• Funding research and strategy documents to help SBCCD identify and pursue grants and financial incentives for infrastructure improvements.

Resource Impact:
The resources and insights developed through this project will equip SBCCD with the data and strategies needed to enhance campus operations. By providing technical analysis, strategic recommendations, and engagement support, the Fellow’s work will help SBCCD:

• Improve energy reliability and efficiency, ensuring uninterrupted campus operations.
• Expand transportation and mobility options, making commuting more accessible and reducing traffic congestion.

By building SBCCD’s capacity to implement infrastructure improvements, the Fellow will play a key role in advancing the district’s efforts to create a more efficient, adaptable, and well-managed campus environment.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

About SBCCD

Founded in 1926, the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) serves over 20,000 students across Crafton Hills College and San Bernardino Valley College, offering nearly 150 academic and career training programs. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, SBCCD is committed to accessible and affordable education, particularly for Latino/a and underserved students. It also expands regional impact through Empire KVCR 91.9 FM and TV Channel 24, delivering educational and cultural programming to the Inland Empire.

Workplace Culture

SBCCD fosters a welcoming and supportive workplace where Fellows are encouraged to take initiative, ask questions, and expand their skill set. They will attend meetings, observe leadership decision-making, and engage with stakeholders, gaining insight into how SBCCD balances priorities and develops data-driven solutions. Through mentorship and collaboration with experts in facilities management, public administration, and infrastructure planning, Fellows will build valuable connections.

Fellowship Experience

Fellows gain hands-on experience in infrastructure planning, energy management, and operational efficiency, supporting finance budgeting, utility data analysis, and strategic planning while contributing to campus resilience efforts and emergency preparedness. They will have opportunities to present findings, contribute to real-world projects, and develop technical expertise in a dynamic public agency setting.

This Fellowship is ideal for curious, analytical, and solutions-driven candidates eager to work on energy, transportation, and sustainability initiatives. Fellows will conduct research, analyze data, and contribute to impactful projects that enhance campus operations. By the end of their term, they will have developed technical expertise, project management skills, and industry connections, preparing them for careers in facilities management, environmental planning, and infrastructure development.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Coachella Valley Association of Governments’ (CVAG) Energy and Sustainability Committee identifies a focus needed on energy implementation through the Inland Regional Energy Network (I‐REN) as part of the implementation efforts of our agency’s plan.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The I‐REN Program is a partnership between the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG), and the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG). The CVAG agency represents members from 10 cities, 4 Native American Tribes and the county in the Central and Eastern Riverside County region. CVAG is the regional planning agency coordinating government services within the Coachella Valley. By providing solutions to the common issues of the local governments and tribes that are its members, CVAG promotes a better quality of life and balanced growth for our residents. The CVAG I‐REN Energy Fellow will be serving to support and fill organizational capacity needs for our member agencies in Energy Efficiency, project identification, energy building identification and benchmarking, climate/energy action planning and other sustainability initiatives.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) serves the Coachella Valley and Palo Verde Valley, a region in Southern California’s Colorado Desert. This area encompasses ten cities: Blythe, Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, and Rancho Mirage, as well as unincorporated areas of Riverside County and four Tribes (Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Cabazon Band of Cahuilla Indians, Torres Martinez Band of Cahuilla Indians, and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians). The Coachella Valley is an interesting place to live and work due to its natural beauty, surrounded by the stunning San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking amidst dramatic desert landscapes and palm oases. The region boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, particularly known for its mid-century modern architecture, numerous art galleries, and the annual Palm Springs International Film Festival, in addition to hosting the world-famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and Stagecoach Country Music Festival. With over 350 days of sunshine annually, the valley is ideal for outdoor recreation like golf and tennis. While historically known for tourism and agriculture, the Coachella Valley’s economy is diversifying with growth in healthcare, real estate, and education. Each of the nine cities within the valley offers a distinct character, providing a range of living experiences. Despite offering a desert escape, the Coachella Valley is also within driving distance of major Southern California urban centers. For CivicSpark Fellows, the Coachella Valley offers a unique environment to engage in meaningful work, surrounded by natural beauty and a diverse community, with opportunities to contribute to regional sustainability and resilience in a dynamic setting.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The position will assist in two City initiatives, Grow Riverside and the Green Business Program. These two programs will require interactions with stakeholders to project plan and manage key phases of implementation that will allow for the development of resilient urban farming and promote sustainability in private businesses.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Fellow will assist in the delivery of the Grow Movement through the following initiatives: the Grow Conference and the Northside Agriculture Innovation Center (NAIC). The Grow Conference brings a collection of practitioners working in agriculture to share best practices in regenerative agriculture and urban farming and includes farm-to-fork dinner and farm tours. The Grow movement also includes the highly anticipated NAIC, a community-driven project on an 8-acre site aimed at boosting workforce development, fostering innovation, and creating businesses in sustainable agriculture and food production. The Fellow will assist in the implementation of key project phases, including the start-up of an agricultural education program at the site, assisting staff with the build out of a solar greenhouse, and with programming at the site.

The Green Business Network provides environmental consulting at no cost to local businesses to help them save money, operate more sustainably, and receive public recognition for their efforts. Working along City staff and the consulting team, the Fellow will assist in moving key project phases forward by acting as a liaison between City staff, the consulting team and local businesses. They will ensure the program is effective and relevant to business owners, working to reduce cost while reducing waste, and increasing energy & water efficiency. The fellow will also assist with promoting the program to new businesses expanding the reach and impact of the program.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Riverside is a full-service city with a population of 317,000 people and 2,300 employees. The Office of Sustainability is a 4-member division that develops and implements sustainability policies and projects across 12 City departments. The Office of Sustainability is a subset of the City Manager’s Office. The Office of Sustainability is a high-level policy implementer for a large city and will give the Fellow valuable experience in learning how policy is developed and implemented across large and diverse groups of departments, divisions, and staff members.Riverside is a historic citrus community and home to the University of California at Riverside. The City grew up on citrus and later as a postwar hub of development that complimented the Southern California Region. Riverside is remarkably diverse and is a majority Latino city. The City serves as the Riverside County seat; a county as large as the state of New Jersey. Within two hours of beaches, deserts, mountains, and a variety of urban and suburban cities, Riverside is a great nexus of experiences and activities that will surprise any prospective Fellow!

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The fellow will assist with the City of Riverside’s Office of Sustainability in its efforts to develop a citywide Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Fellow will assist to map and establish the parameters for a newly formed Citywide
Office of Sustainability that is housed within the City Manager’s Office. The Fellow will also work to establish initial outreach and data collection planning for a Climate Action Plan which will be part of the City’s new General Plan development process. Outcomes will be two pre-planning strategies for mapping a new sustainability office and a new sustainability strategy to make sure that both are relevant to the City’s needs and allow Riverside to become a regional leader in sustainability and climate adaptation.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Riverside is a full-service city with a population of 317,000 people and 2,300 employees. The Office of Sustainability is a 4-member division that develops and implements sustainability policies and projects across 12 City departments. The Office of Sustainability is a subset of the City Manager’s Office. The Office of Sustainability is a high-level policy implementer for a large city and will give the Fellow valuable experience in learning how policy is developed and implemented across large and diverse groups of departments, divisions, and staff members.Riverside is a historic citrus community and home to the University of California at Riverside. The City grew up on citrus and later as a postwar hub of development that complimented the Southern California Region. Riverside is remarkably diverse and is a majority Latino city. The City serves as the Riverside County seat; a county as large as the state of New Jersey. Within two hours of beaches, deserts, mountains, and a variety of urban and suburban cities, Riverside is a great nexus of experiences and activities that will surprise any prospective Fellow!

ABOUT THE PROJECT

This position will provide assistance with capacity issues, grant funding, regional government assistance, leadership within the I-REN fellowship program, and additional projects throughout 25 agencies in all of San Bernardino County. This individual will take on a key role in developing tours, engaging with other fellows, and participating within I-REN programs for multiple agencies. They will also be exposed to both the I-REN side and the SBCOG side of programs including grants, housing, environmental planning, regional planning, and various other programs within the county as a whole including hard to reach, disadvantaged, and challenged communities.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

I-REN Fellowship leader program – co-lead with WRCOG Fellow: scheduling events for fellowship cohort, coordinating networking, liaison between I-REN program managers and fellows throughout the region.

I-REN program assistance within the workforce, education, and training sector: assist with science fairs, educational programs throughout SB County, manage consultants related to education, workforce development program planning, networking within the county staff and outside agencies.

I-REN outreach events: assisting with speaking to I-REN programs, fellowship outreach, creating task tracking, creation of flyers, aid in the planning and execution of events related to I-REN and SBCOG, participating in outside agency events to promote I-REN

SBCOG connections with other regional and local agencies related to housing, resilience, and funding: working on the climate action plan, microgrid programs, EV charging plans, resiliency planning, grant funding for local agencies, building connections within local agencies and other regional agencies.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

SBCOG serves the entirety of San Bernardino County. There are urban and valley regions tied into mountain and desert regions. Everything from Upland to the border with Nevada and Arizona is included in the community. While most of the work happens within the San Bernardino City area, there are events throughout the region and people to work with who have different needs and desires based on their geographic location. There is always something new to do and a different group to engage with every day. The bigger picture of the region is always the goal and there is always something happening.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The fellow will work with the City of Riverside to identify citywide areas of opportunity for zero emission vehicles (ZEV) and infrastructure that would further enable ZEV adoption across the City, as well as, evaluating City building stock and upcoming construction projects for infrastructure opportunities to create more sustainable, healthy, and efficient structures.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Fellow will assist to map and establish parameters for ZEV infrastructure development to help lower GHG emissions and increase air quality for the City. The Fellow will also work to evaluate public buildings, their design & operations, for opportunities in environmental leadership in existing building stock. Outcomes will be policy recommendations on ZEV and infrastructure needs, and recommendations for projects and programs that can benefit current public building stock setting a template for future municipal development standards.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Riverside is a full-service city with a population of 317,000 people and 2,300 employees. The Office of Sustainability is a 4-member division that develops and implements sustainability policies and projects across 12 City departments. The Office of Sustainability is a subset of the City Manager’s Office. The Office of Sustainability is a high-level policy implementer for a large city and will give the Fellow valuable experience in learning how policy is developed and implemented across large and diverse groups of departments, divisions, and staff members.Riverside is a historic citrus community and home to the University of California at Riverside. The City grew up on citrus and later as a postwar hub of development that complimented the Southern California Region. Riverside is remarkably diverse and is a majority Latino city. The City serves as the Riverside County seat; a county as large as the state of New Jersey. Within two hours of beaches, deserts, mountains, and a variety of urban and suburban cities, Riverside is a great nexus of experiences and activities that will surprise any prospective Fellow!

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The census tracts containing parking and refueling points for the City’s fleet fall between the 86th-93rd CalEnviro Screen 4.0 percentile with diesel PM falling between the 94th -99th percentile.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Due to the California Air Resources Board (CARB)’s recently adopted Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) rule, all new and replacement medium- and heavy-duty vehicles are required to be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by the year 2027. The proposed project will involve conducting feasibility studies between battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), identifying future sites for the installation of electric charging infrastructure to later become larger Capital Improvement Projects, and researching competitive funding to prepare for the City of Corona’s fleet transition to ZEVs. The fellow will participate from cradle to grave, with tasks including analyzing our current fleet to determine which vehicles are impacted by the ACF Rule, assisting in preparing a cost estimate for the acquisition of ZEVs to phase out existing gasoline vehicles, researching manufacturers that the City may source ZEVs from, etc. The fellow will not only be assisting the City in meeting compliance with the ACF ruling, but also in taking a positive step towards forging a cleaner energy future for our residents.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the City of Corona is a thriving community known for its rich history, diverse population, and scenic surroundings. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and close to both Los Angeles and Riverside, Corona offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The city has seen significant growth in recent years, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live and work. Corona is a family-friendly city with excellent schools, parks, and recreational opportunities, making it a great place to raise children or enjoy an active lifestyle. Residents take pride in their close-knit community, which is supported by a range of local events, farmers’ markets, and cultural festivals that celebrate its diversity and history. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golf, or prefer exploring local museums and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Why Corona is an Interesting Place to Live and Work: Living and working in the City of Corona offers a unique opportunity to experience both the charm of small-town life and the energy of a growing city. With its central location, you’ll be able to easily access the many attractions and career opportunities that Southern California has to offer, including the nearby mountains, beaches, and entertainment hubs. For Fellows, Corona provides a distinctive learning environment. You’ll gain experience working in a city that is focused on sustainable growth, community engagement, and public service. The city’s collaborative and inclusive culture offers valuable hands-on experience, making it an ideal place for professional development. Fellows will also benefit from the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the residents and the future of the community. In short, the City of Corona is a vibrant, welcoming place to live and work, with ample opportunities for both personal and professional growth. The city’s unique mix of community spirit, natural beauty, and economic potential makes it an exciting destination for anyone looking to make a positive difference in local government.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The City of Indio Sustainability Commission is finalizing the Sustainability Plan. The plan includes action items with a strong focus on outreach, partnerships and education. Community feedback is an important aspect of of the plan so that projects can be in line with resident expectations and future projects can be informed from the feedback. Action items include energy efficiency, conservation and education.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The role of the Fellow will be to support sustainability projects including energy efficiency and climate action. The Fellow will be involved with research, community engagement and planning. If time allows, other sustainable topics may also be worked on including stormwater and waste management.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The natural beauty and perfect winter climate combine to make the City of Indio the leading city in the region. Located in the Coachella Valley in Southern California, Indio spans 30 square miles and is the largest municipality in the Valley, both in area and population. Following significant growth in the region, Indio has seen a 73% increase of residents since 2000. This dramatic growth and success in recent years has required strategic response by City leadership in the upgrade of infrastructure and services. Today the population in Indio is approximately 85,000. Indio has historically been the main population center in the Coachella Valley and continues to serve as the location for Riverside County’s eastern branch offices.

With fabulous weather, Indio offers abundant outdoor activities including renowned polo matches, championship golf, cycling, equestrian events, and hiking. This ideal climate, combined with exceptional conditions for growing various crops and an ample supply of ground water, allows agriculture to remain the second largest industry in the Coachella Valley. Tourism is ranked as the region’s top employer. With close to a million visitors each year attending its various festivals, shows, concerts, and events, Indio is known as the “City of Festivals.” 

ABOUT THE PROJECT

This fellowship directly supports the District’s Energy Manager in planning, implementing, and administering a comprehensive energy management and sustainability program. We are spearheading initiatives to reduce utility consumption, decrease our carbon footprint, transition to sustainable transportation (including EV charging infrastructure and EV buses), and enhance overall environmental stewardship across all facilities. We require dedicated support to bolster our capacity for in-depth research into grant funding opportunities, assist in the development of grant proposals, analyze energy consumption data, and support the implementation of eco-sustainability programs. The Fellow’s contributions will be vital in securing resources and advancing our strategic objectives.
We have identified critical priorities this project will address. These include the urgent need to secure diverse grant funding and leverage economic incentives for projects like zero-emission transportation, solar power generation, resilient infrastructure, sustainable outdoor learning environments, and battery storage. Furthermore, there’s a strong emphasis on integrating energy efficiency into facilities bond projects, managing District real property assets with a focus on cost control and sustainability, and ensuring compliance with state mandates for eco-sustainability. This project will help overcome the challenge of limited staff capacity for dedicated grant research and proposal development, and provide analytical support for data-driven decision-making in energy management

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. Overarching Goals of the Project:
The primary goal of this fellowship is to assist the Energy Manager to achieve the District’s ambitious energy and sustainability targets. This includes:
Maximizing the acquisition of grant funding and economic incentives for sustainability projects.
Supporting the development and implementation of the District’s energy/utilities management program through energy audits.
Facilitating the transition to a sustainable and zero-emission transportation fleet.
Strengthening the District’s eco-sustainability programs through educational outreach at school sites.
Improving the tracking, analysis, and reporting of utility consumption and renewable energy generation by maintaining the EnergyCAP utility database.
2. Role of the Fellow in the Project:
The Energy Fellow will work closely with and under the guidance of the Energy Manager by, undertaking a variety of critical tasks:
Grant Research and Support: Identifying, researching, and evaluating local, state, and federal grant funding opportunities, tax credits, and rebates relevant to all facets of the District’s sustainability goals (e.g., EV infrastructure, solar, energy efficiency, battery storage). Assisting in the preparation, writing, and compilation of grant applications and supporting documentation.
Data Analysis and Reporting: Assisting in the collection, analysis, and maintenance of records for energy (including solar and battery storage), water, irrigation, sewer, natural gas consumption, and solid waste. Supporting the creation and maintenance of a dashboard on the District website for utility consumption and solar generation.
Programmatic Support: Assisting in the development and implementation of energy conservation and eco-sustainability awareness programs. Supporting the coordination of initiatives with internal departments and external partners. Helping to prepare materials for presentations to the Board or other stakeholders.
Policy and Planning Assistance: Researching best practices, new technology trends, and relevant legislation in the energy and sustainability sectors to inform District planning and policy. Assisting with the development of long-range plans for energy conservation and sustainability.
Project Coordination Assistance: Supporting the Director in coordinating the work of consultants, vendors, and contractors for specific energy projects, as assigned. Assisting with the integration of energy efficiency measures into facilities bond projects.
3. Desired Project Outcomes in Terms of Resources Developed:
By the end of the fellowship, the Fellow will have contributed to the development of several key resources:
A Comprehensive Grant Opportunity Matrix detailing potential funding sources, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements for priority sustainability projects.
Draft Sections and Supporting Documentation for at least two to three significant grant proposals.
Analytical Reports and Visualizations of utility consumption trends, identifying areas for targeted energy efficiency interventions through EnergyCAP software.
Resource Materials for Energy Conservation and Sustainability Awareness Programs (e.g., fact sheets, presentation slides, content for website).
A Summary Report of research findings on emerging technologies, relevant policies, or best practices in a specific area of focus (e.g., EV charging deployment, community solar models).
A “Fellowship Contribution Log” detailing tasks undertaken, resources utilized, and key learnings to inform future fellowship cohorts or similar support roles.
4. How These Resources Will Help Increase the Agency’s Capacity:
These resources will directly augment the capacity of the Energy Manager and the District. The Grant Opportunity Matrix and draft proposals will significantly streamline the grant acquisition process, increasing the likelihood of securing vital funding and reducing the Director’s time spent on initial research and drafting. The analytical reports will enable more data-informed decision-making for energy management and project prioritization. Awareness materials will enhance stakeholder engagement and promote a culture of conservation. The research summary will provide valuable insights for strategic planning. Overall, the Fellow’s contributions will provide essential leverage, allowing the Energy Manager to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives, negotiations, and program oversight, thereby accelerating the achievement of the District’s comprehensive energy and sustainability goals.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Okay, let’s talk about the vibrant community our energy management initiatives serve here in Colton, California! This context is really important for Fellows to understand, as our work is deeply intertwined with the people and places we impact.

Our Community: Colton, California

Colton is a city with a rich history, strategically located in the heart of the Inland Empire region of Southern California. It’s a community that beautifully blends its historical roots, particularly its significant railroad heritage, with the dynamic growth and diversity of modern Southern California.

Why Colton is an Interesting Place to Live and Work for Fellows:

A Crossroads of History and Future: Colton boasts the distinction of being the site where the two major Southern California railroads, the Union Pacific and the BNSF (formerly Santa Fe), cross. This “Colton Crossing” is a landmark and a testament to the city’s foundational role in the development of the region. For Fellows interested in history, infrastructure, or urban development, this provides a fascinating backdrop. You can literally see the arteries of commerce and a piece of American history in action daily.

Diverse and Engaged Population: Colton is home to a diverse population, reflecting the multicultural tapestry of California. This creates a rich social environment and offers Fellows the chance to work with and learn from people from many different backgrounds. Our schools, which are the direct beneficiaries of our energy work, are a microcosm of this vibrant community. Engaging with this diversity is a learning experience in itself.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The fellow will support Riverside County’s Workforce Development Division through its Special Projects Unit and Regional planning unit, with a focus on the clean energy sector. The agency seeks to strengthen local workforce capacity by expanding research, outreach, and planning efforts that align with state goals for a renewable energy transition. The fellow will assist in identifying workforce gaps, developing strategic partnerships, and supporting planning initiatives aimed at building a robust pipeline for energy-related trades. Specifically, the fellow will work in collaboration with regional partners such as the Inland Regional Energy Network and surrounding counties to identify job placement opportunities and inform future workforce investments. By conducting research and data analysis, the fellow will help uncover projected workforce needs for the following years and support the creation of pathways for residents to access clean energy careers. This project directly addresses community-identified priorities, including the need for equitable access to high-quality jobs and training programs in underserved communities. Through collaboration with the Inland Regional Energy Network and regional partners, the fellow will conduct research and stakeholder engagement that informs job placement strategies, supports workforce education and training programs, and ensures alignment with both local and regional workforce plans. The ultimate goal is to supporting strategic initiatives that build a more resilient and opportunity-rich local economy.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. The primary goal of this project is to strengthen Riverside County’s Workforce Development Division’s ability to plan, design, and implement clean energy workforce initiatives that are equitable, responsive to local labor market needs, and aligned with the state’s goals for a renewable energy future. The project aims to identify opportunities to expand access to clean energy careers, particularly for underserved and underrepresented communities in the Inland Empire region.
2. The CivicSpark Fellow will support the County’s Special Projects and Regional Planning Unit within the Workforce Development Division. Their responsibilities will include conducting labor market research, engaging with regional partners, and identifying opportunities for job placement and workforce training in the clean energy sector. The fellow will also assist with community outreach, coordinate stakeholder engagement activities, and support strategic planning efforts. Additionally, the fellow may contribute to writing funding proposals and helping the County identify resources to sustain long-term workforce initiatives.
3. By the end of the service term, the fellow is expected to produce several key resources, including: A research brief or report summarizing clean energy workforce trends in the Inland Empire region, stakeholder engagement map identifying key industry and education partners, recommendations for workforce development strategies aligned with regional planning goals, outreach materials that support public awareness of training and career opportunities in clean energy, and a list of funding sources and/or drafted content for grant proposals related to workforce and clean energy programs.
4. These resources will strengthen the agency’s ability to make data-informed decisions, form new partnerships, and expand clean energy workforce pathways for Riverside County residents. By building a clearer picture of the region’s workforce needs and opportunities, the County will be better equipped to design programs that meet community and industry demands. The fellow’s work will also help the County pursue additional funding, align its workforce strategy with state and regional goals, and ensure that underserved communities are not left behind in the energy transition.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Riverside County is one of the fastest-growing counties in California and a vital part of the Inland Empire region. With a diverse population of over 2.4 million residents, the county includes urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and rural communities—each with unique workforce and economic development needs. The Inland Empire has a strong foundation in public administration, transportation, logistics and manufacturing, and healthcare, and is now expanding into clean energy, technology, and other emerging sectors. What makes Riverside County an exciting place to live and work is its blend of community-driven innovation and regional collaboration. The area is home to a wide range of educational institutions, community-based organizations, and growing industries—all working together to create equitable opportunities and long-term economic mobility. Fellows will experience the dynamic intersection of regional planning, workforce development, and public service in a region deeply committed to inclusive growth. With its proximity to major metropolitan areas, beautiful natural landscapes, and rich cultural diversity, the Inland Empire offers a unique balance of professional opportunity and quality of life, making it a meaningful place to serve and grow.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The Blue Mountain Energy Conservation Initiative will mainly serve the City of Grand Terrace including its residents, businesses, and any key players that play a huge role in developing energy sustainability within the City of Grand Terrace. The initiative will require the workforce of one full time fellow and collaboration from various partners including city staff, I-REN, utility companies, and any other agencies that will help develop the city’s initiative.

Priorities for the project include providing information to the public regarding energy sustainability and conservation through resources provided by both public and private agencies including the City of Grand Terrace, Southern California Gas Company, Southern California Edison, and the California Energy Commission.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The overall goal of the Blue Mountain Energy Conservation Initiative is to reach the city’s goal of achieving energy sustainability through implementation of energy conservation measures such retrofitting of public buildings and facilities including the city’s civic center, parks, and senior center.

In addition to achieving necessary upgrades to the city’s facilities, the goal of the program will also be to provide helpful information to the city’s low income residents that can benefit from energy conservation programs offered by utility companies and local governments such as retrofitting of residences with little to no cost for property owners.

The role of the Fellow would be to coordinate the initiative in its entirety from data gathering, to analysis, oversee implementation of recommendations from the I-REN team (retrofitting of buildings), to coordination of meetings between I-REN staff, city staff, and external agencies including utility companies and third party contractors.

Overall, the initiative will assist the city in achieving its ultimate goal of being energy sustainable at both public and private buildings including city facilities, buildings, parks, and private dwellings where residents benefit from the many programs offered by I-REN and utility companies.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

The City of Grand Terrace serves its residents, businesses, and stakeholders including contractors, vendors, and consultants that seek to perform business within the city. With collaboration from external partners, the city intends to serve its residents with resources that will assist in reaching self sustainability and energy conservation.

Being located in the center of the Inland Empire metropolitan area, the Fellow will be able to network with various partners and nearby public agencies that seek the same goals as those of Grand Terrace. 

ABOUT THE PROJECT

1. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory and Analysis
•Goal: Quantify and categorize all current sources of greenhouse gas emissions across operations.
•Need: Develop or adopt a methodology consistent with state/national protocols (e.g., The Climate Registry, CARB).
•Deliverable: A comprehensive GHG inventory baseline year and ongoing tracking framework.
2. Identification of Emission Reduction Opportunities
•Goal: Pinpoint practical and high-impact opportunities to reduce emissions.
•Need: Evaluate fleet, facilities, energy use, and procurement policies for potential improvements.
3. Development of Reduction Pathways
•Goal: Outline technically feasible, cost-effective pathways to reduce emissions over time.
•Need: Engage experts to help prioritize options (e.g., electrification, renewables, carbon sequestration, efficiency upgrades).
4. Project Concept Development
•Goal: Generate a portfolio of potential projects eligible for future funding (grant-ready).
•Need: Pre-feasibility studies, cost estimates, emissions reduction potential, and co-benefit assessments (e.g., air quality, equity).
5. Community Engagement and Equity Considerations
•Goal: Involve impacted communities in planning and project selection.
•Need: Outreach, listening sessions, and equity assessments to ensure inclusive participation and equitable benefits.
6. Integration with Existing Plans and Regulatory Requirements
•Goal: Align with existing sustainability, climate adaptation, and regulatory plans.
•Need: Cross-reference regional climate plans, SB 375/SB 32 targets, CEQA requirements, etc.
7. Funding and Financing Strategy
•Goal: Identify pathways to secure funding for implementation.
•Need: Grant strategy, project bundling options, and readiness documentation for shovel-ready status.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. Overarching Goals of the Project
The primary goal of this project is to significantly reduce JCSD’s energy consumption and carbon footprint through the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels at the agency’s headquarters. By generating renewable on-site energy and incorporating modern energy storage systems, the project aims to reduce reliance on the grid, lower operational energy costs, and enhance energy resiliency. An equally important goal is to support the agency’s long-term plan to transition to an electrified vehicle fleet, which aligns with broader environmental sustainability and climate resilience initiatives.
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2. Role of the Fellow in the Project
The Fellow will play a central and collaborative role in supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of the solar installation project. Specific responsibilities may include:
•Conducting background research on solar technologies and storage options suitable for JCSD’s facility and energy needs.
•Assisting in feasibility assessments and site analysis.
•Supporting stakeholder engagement efforts, including coordination with utility companies, vendors, and internal departments.
•Helping to develop project implementation timelines, funding strategies, and cost-benefit analyses.
•Drafting progress reports, sustainability plans, and related documentation to support executive decision-making and compliance with funding requirements.
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3. Desired Project Outcomes in Terms of Resources Developed
•A comprehensive solar and battery storage feasibility report tailored to JCSD’s operational footprint.
•A strategic implementation plan, including cost estimates, funding sources, and phasing options.
•A stakeholder engagement and communication roadmap.
•An electrification roadmap for JCSD’s vehicle fleet, linked to projected solar generation and storage capacity.
•Documentation of vendor outreach, permitting considerations, and site readiness assessments.
•A final presentation and summary report to JCSD leadership and external partners, outlining key findings and recommended next steps.
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4. How These Resources Will Help Increase the Agency’s Capacity
These resources will provide JCSD with a clear, data-informed foundation to move forward with a complex, multi-phase sustainability initiative. They will enable the agency to:
•Make informed decisions regarding capital investments in clean energy infrastructure.
•Access and leverage funding opportunities by demonstrating project readiness.
•Reduce future energy costs and budget volatility through a clear operational strategy.
•Establish a scalable model that can be applied to other JCSD facilities or regional partners.
•Advance broader climate goals, including fleet electrification and emission reductions, by aligning operational planning with infrastructure enhancements.
Together, these tools will significantly increase JCSD’s capacity to proactively address energy resilience, sustainability mandates, and long-term cost control—ensuring environmental and fiscal stewardship.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

JCSD serves the vibrant and diverse communities of Jurupa Valley and Eastvale in western Riverside County, two of California’s newest and fastest-growing cities. These communities are rich in cultural heritage and represent a broad cross-section of ethnic, linguistic, and generational diversity, making the region an engaging and inclusive place to live and work. The area combines suburban comfort with proximity to major metropolitan hubs like Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, while offering scenic views, equestrian trails, regional parks, and strong neighborhood connections. JCSD’s broad range of services that include water and wastewater operations to parks, recreation, graffiti abatement, and landscape maintenance provides a unique professional environment where perspective employees can gain experience in multiple facets of public service. This diversity in both community and services creates a compelling, well-rounded opportunity for those looking to make an impact, grow professionally, and build meaningful relationships within a community-oriented organization.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

We serve the cities of Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Murrieta, Canyon Lake, and various unincorporated Riverside and Orange County areas. We provide regular outreach on infrastructure improvement projects, water quality, public health, and billing/rate related matters. We participate in energy demand response programs to reduce periodic power outages and are seeking to expand our renewable energy portfolio. Our goal is to minimize operating costs while being responsible stewards of the environment.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

We do not have a single project but several different projects or programs where a fellow can contribute and learn. The projects are as follows:
-Assist with project oversight for a proposed battery energy storage project that could start in late 2025. This project will created substantial electric expense savings which help control rate escalations.
-Participate in current demand response programs by monitoring, trending, evaluating program improvement, and seeking new opportunities. These programs seek to mitigate rising electricity costs.
-Assist in community outreach effort for septic to sewer conversion projects which will result in improved groundwater quality and increase recycled water availability. Better groundwater quality leads to more cost effect local groundwater supplies and additional recycled water can help supplement local surface water levels or offset potable water use.
-May assist Government Relations in monitoring and review of pending regulations and legislation that is received for review and/or comment. (We understand this fellow cannot be used to steer, lobby, or influence legislative or regulatory outcomes)
-May provide assistance to the grants management team in compliance follow-up for existing grants that have already been awarded. Most grants are for infrastructure improvement. Others may be for water use efficiency and energy efficiency, including a pending EV charging grant.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Our headquarters is situated in the heart of Elsinore Valley which has a rich history and is a melting pot of different cultures. Since we serve many cities in the region over 95 square miles of service are, our demographic served varies dramatically from all ranges of race, religion, income, and education. Understanding how to meet the needs and expectations of disadvantaged service areas, affluent communities, and everything in between will offer the fellow a unique perspective on what is important to different customers and communities. Understanding how to relate to our customers to ensure we meet their expectations is paramount our success and offers lessons that can be applied in any community. We own and manage two lakes and dams, and we have roles in the operation of a third lake. We also participate in a regional lake and watershed health program to ensure all stakeholders are partnering to maximize lake and environmental health.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Assist the Technical Services team within the Operations Department with project management efforts for commissioning and start-up for new facilities, development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and operations and maintenance (O&M) manuals, and coordinating project deliverables with other Western Water departments including Engineering and Water Resources.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. Energy management and optimization for water quality and wastewater treatment plants.
2. Roll of the Fellow will be support and research related.
3. Participates in the development of Western Water strategic plans and initiatives.
Participates in developing and monitoring department and capital improvement budgets.
Participates in the implementation of energy management and system optimization programs.
4. Delivery of programs ensuring new start-ups are efficient and effective.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Western Water is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to nearly one million customers across Riverside County. As one of the region’s largest and most impactful utilities, we are committed to the highest standards of transparency, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

San Bernardino County Land Use Services- Long Range Planning division is seeking one Fellow to assist with renewable energy entitlement streamlining.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This project will conduct targeted research to provide recommendations to streamline the entitlement process for renewable energy projects within unincorporated San Bernardino County. This initiative will ensure internal land use policies and procedures effectively support and enable renewable energy development in alignment with the Countywide Plan.

The Fellow will help staff assess emerging trends in solar, energy storage, and other renewable energy technologies. The research will inform internal procedures—ensuring that entitlement processes are clear, consistent, and supportive of the Renewable Energy and Conservation Element.

By aligning entitlement policies with Countywide Plan objectives, the jurisdiction can facilitate renewable energy development while maintaining community character, protecting environmental resources, and ensuring equitable outcomes.

Objectives:

Evaluate model policies and procedures from other jurisdictions to identify best practices.

Identify internal policy gaps and procedural inefficiencies related to renewable energy permitting.

Deliverables:

Policy research report with best practices in renewable energy entitlements.

Gap analysis of current policies and renewable energy entitlement best practices.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

San Bernardino County’s diverse communities are shaped by their distinct mountain, valley, and desert landscapes, each with unique cultural identities and ways of life. In the mountain regions, communities enjoy a quiet lifestyle characterized by forests, cool temperatures, and a strong sense of community. Tourism plays a significant role, with visitors drawn to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and taking in the scenic views. The valley communities blend suburban development with agricultural roots, maintaining a balance between residential growth and farming. These areas reflect a mix of rural traditions and suburban conveniences, with residents valuing both heritage and progress. The Desert region is arid and rural. Each community is distinct. Local economies have historically been tied to mining but are now increasingly tied to tourism. Each of these communities contributes to the rich tapestry of San Bernardino County, reflecting the diverse ways people adapt to and thrive in their environments.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The Western Riverside County Clean Cities Coalition, hosted by Western Riverside Council of Governments, serves 14 cities in the Western Riverside County Subregion. The Coalition assists municipalities with deployment of zero-emission vehicles and infrastructure through partnership building, outreach and engagement, and technical support.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The fellow would assist with facilitation of the Inland Zero Emission Vehicle Network, which works to build partnerships and increase access to resources for zero-emission vehicle and infrastructure deployment in the Inland Empire. The fellow would assist with agenda development, meeting facilitation and note taking, report preparation, engagement of industry speakers and participants, and development of tools to support information sharing. The fellow would also assist with designing and implementing community engagement activities related to the Western Riverside County Municipal Green Zones project. This would include identifying and engaging site hosts, helping with preparation of outreach materials, staffing booths and talking with visitors, and preparing summaries and report-outs.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY

Our organization serves Western Riverside County, a fast-growing region in inland Southern California. Poor air quality and a quickly growing logistics industry create unique challenges that must be addressed. Vehicles and infrastructure are a significant contributor to these challenges, and our work makes a real difference in supporting a transition to clean fuels. Many of our members want to transition to clean fuels, and look to us to help provide the necessary resources.