Discussion and possible action on any and all matters regarding the approval of the statutory partnership between Campesinos Sin Fronteras and the City of San Luis. (Armando Esparza, Director of Economic Development)

The City of San Luis, in collaboration with Campesinos Sin Fronteras, is committed to utilizing the Community Change Grants Program from the Environmental Protection Agency to implement two (2) projects that address the critical and urgent needs of our community. The partnership proposals focus on the development of a Community Resilience Hub and a major expansion of the West Wastewater Treatment Plant. These initiatives are designed to not only meet immediate community needs but also ensure long-term environmental health and economic prosperity.

Detailed Project Descriptions
Community Resilience Hub
Purpose and Vision: Situated on a 1.25-acre lot along Cesar Chavez Blvd, the proposed Community Resilience Hub will serve as a cornerstone for fostering a culture of climate resilience within the community. This facility will be designed to remain operational during emergencies and will function as an official Command Center for the City of San Luis, ensuring a coordinated response during crises.
Implementation Strategy: The hub will be approximately 12,813 sq ft. and equipped to host scientific research and convenings to advance environmental justice and civil rights. Operated year-round by Campesinos Sin Fronteras, it will provide climate resilience-specific workforce development and utilize a culturally specific Community Health Worker approach to educate on heat stress, chronic disease prevention, and water conservation. The hub will also house Radio Sin Fronteras KYMZ 99.9 FM, reaching up to 500,000 listeners across four states and two countries.

Enhanced Clean Water Infrastructure
Purpose and Vision: The expansion of the West Wastewater Treatment Plant is critical as the facility is currently operating at 90% capacity. This project will double the plant’s capacity from 1.5 million gallons per day (MGD) to 3.0 MGD, addressing the growing needs of our community and improving our resilience to future challenges.

Implementation Strategy: This expansion includes major system improvements such as upgrading the headworks, aeration basins, digesters, and disinfection systems. A new operator’s building and the implementation of a Supervisor Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system will enhance operational efficiency and integration with other wastewater facilities. An evaluation and replacement of an 1800 lineal feet 14” sewer force main are also part of the project, ensuring long-term sustainability and compliance.

Goals and Community Impact
These projects are designed for rapid implementation, with initial actions planned to commence within 120 days of grant approval. This approach aligns with grant compliance and readiness requirements and addresses immediate community needs effectively.

Long-Term Impact: Beyond immediate improvements, these projects will lay the foundation for sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life and environmental health in San Luis. By focusing on infrastructure and educational programs, we aim to build a resilient community that can thrive in the face of environmental and climate-related challenges. The Community Resilience Hub and the expansion of the West Wastewater Treatment Plant are pivotal to the City of San Luis’s strategy to promote community-driven climate action and environmental justice. These projects not only address immediate needs but also ensure long-term resilience and prosperity for all residents, making San Luis a model for other communities facing similar challenges.