Optimizing the Siting and Design of Distributed Energy Resources
Utilities provide integration capacity maps that can help customers and developers optimize the placement of distributed energy resources like solar generation and electric vehicle chargers. The California Public Utilities Commission recently decided to require improvements to the maps, which will unlock new uses that can aid public agencies’ decarbonization efforts.
When Does Civic Discourse Cross the Line to Harassment?
Public agencies must walk a careful line in trying to police expressions of public opinion, even when members of the public target officials and employees as proxies for their frustration. This article discusses how to keep civic engagement constructive while protecting officials and employees from harassment.
Trail Improvement and Joint Use Agreement
On behalf of the City of Cupertino, the firm negotiated an agreement between the City and the Santa Clara Valley Water District for the improvement and joint use of a pedestrian and bike path along Regnart Creek.
Complex Construction Project Negotiations
The firm is assisting the Transbay Joint Powers Authority (TJPA) in negotiations with an adjoining landowner to relocate the ventilation system for the underground levels of the Salesforce Transit Center to accommodate a high rise building project adjacent to the Transit Center. Funds received will support construction of the train tunnel connecting Caltrain and High […]
Successful Short-Term Rental Regulations: It is Possible!
Short-term home rentals have become increasingly popular in recent years, and have continued to thrive even during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, many local communities report an increase in short-term rentals in the last six months, presumably as people seek safe vacation options close to home and take advantage of the ability to work from […]
5 Considerations for Preparation of Administrative Records
The administrative record is the heart of any administrative mandamus proceeding, including under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Because the administrative record generally comprises the entire universe of evidence, the contents of the record are critical. Accordingly, the California Court of Appeal, Fourth District’s recent decision in Golden Door Properties, LLC v. Superior Court […]
SMW Defends Sign Ordinance
The Ninth Circuit rejects a billboard developer’s challenge to Alameda County’s sign ordinance and upholds a rare award of attorneys’ fees to a prevailing defendant on the grounds that the lawsuit was frivolous. (Citizens for Free Speech, LLC v. County of Alameda, 953 F.3d 655 (9th Cir. 2020).)
Successful Construction Defect Litigation Settlement
On behalf of the City of Half Moon Bay, the firm successfully settled a construction defect litigation case regarding a cracked pedestrian trail/bike path. The City recovered close to $500,000 from its public works and construction management contractor and its construction contractor’s surety to fund repair and reconstruction of the trail.
Non-Profit Compliance with Public Contracting Laws
The firm provides ongoing advice to California Trout regarding compliance with public contracting and labor and wage laws for state-funded restoration projects.
Best Practices Updates
The firm updates various cities’ template contracts to reflect updates to California’s public contracting law and best practices. The firm provides training to City staff on negotiating and entering contracts.