- 08 May 2025 by U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Every year on the second Sunday in May, Americans celebrate the mothers in their lives. Often with flowers.
Leading up to Mother’s Day, America imports just over $250 million of cut flowers.
But now they are subject to 10% tariffs, creating a $25 million Mother’s Day Tax.
- This tax will not only affect families, but also the over 11,000 florists across the country.
- Given that 80% of all cut flowers sold in the U.S. are imported, if these tariffs remain in place, over the course of the next year, it will impact Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and other occasions with a flower tax totaling over $210 million.
Why it matters: It isn’t just flowers. Tariffs are increasing costs for Americans and creating massive disruptions that put small businesses at risk.
What they’re saying: Brittany Hizer, co-founder and COO of Pluie, in Keller, Texas said higher duties make it more expensive to import the materials her company needs to make diaper-changing products:
“The 25% tariff imposed on all steel and aluminum imports into the U.S. will be a huge expense to our commercial products. In addition, we are also facing increased tariffs for our diaper changing table parts made in China… Our consumer products recently launched in 2024 are made in China. We are very concerned and already seeing small businesses, especially in our female-founded business community, fold in advance of the tariff increases taking place."
What we’re doing: The U.S. Chamber is calling for immediate tariff relief for small businesses and to provide tariff exclusions for products that cannot be made in the U.S. or threaten American jobs.
- 06 May 2025 by Southern California Edison
How the General Rate Case Supports Customers
California has ambitious goals to improve air quality and achieve a carbon-neutral economy by 2045. While Southern California Edison (SCE) works to achieve that long-term vision, we need to make foundational improvements to the grid today. Like all regulated utilities, SCE’s investments must be authorized by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) through a process known as the General Rate Case (GRC). Every four years, SCE must file detailed plans to the CPUC seeking their approval for grid investments for our operations – planning, designing, building, and operating the electric grid. Our latest GRC focuses on things that will provide customers safer, reliable, resilient electric service now and for the future while supporting energy affordability and the state’s climate initiatives.
SCE’s current GRC application proposed investments include:
- Improving the grid to support new and evolving energy needs, such as EV's and electrifying buildings.
- Developing solutions to address the needs of local energy systems.
- Proactive infrastructure replacement and hardening the grid to reduce wildfire risk.
- Targeted undergrounding and installing covered conductor to significantly reduce wildfire risks.
- Continued vegetation management to provide safe and reliable electric service.
To learn more about our comprehensive approach, visit this website or speak with your Government Relations Manager.
Net-Energy Metering Reform
The Net-Energy Metering (NEM) program originally began in California in 1996 as a subsidy provided to energy customers to incentivize consumer rooftop solar, and it worked! With the goal of 10,000 rooftop solar systems, today there are approximately two million in the state.
The Issue: This subsidy comes at a cost. Contrary to common perception, the NEM subsidy in no way negatively affects SCE’s revenues or profits. Instead, it is paid for by customers who don't have rooftop solar. Today, NEM subsidies make up about 21 – 27 percent of non-solar customer bills. Cal Advocates projects rooftop solar incentives cost non-solar customers $8.5 billion in 2024 alone. This cost-shift on average adds hundreds of dollars per year to non-solar customer bills and disproportionately impacts low-income, seniors and other disadvantaged communities.
The CPUC revisited the state's NEM program in 2022 and adopted the Solar Billing Plan (SBP/NBT) for customers that installed solar systems after April 2023. This was a step in the right direction, as it gave energy credits based on the actual value of the electricity to the grid rather than the retail prices given through NEM. It also incentivized battery storage. By using battery storage and shifting energy use to off-peak times, SBP/NBT helps make the electric grid more reliable and reduces strain during high-demand periods.
While this was a step in the right direction, legacy NEM customers who installed solar before April 2023) are still disproportionately offloading their fixed costs (the costs to maintain the grid and mandated energy efficiency and assistance programs) onto the customers who do not have solar and can least afford it. To address this we need policies that support equitable rates for all customers. Other states and California publicly-owned utilities have shown that it's possible to grow the rooftop solar market in a way that doesn't force others to pay for subsidies that disproportionately benefit those who were able to install rooftop solar. To learn more: Sustainable Path for Solar Power | Energized by Edison
Upcoming Events
AAPI Heritage Month Event
SCE is proud to host its 19th Annual Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month event on May 16, at the SCE Energy Education Center. This year's theme, "Honoring the Past and Rebuilding for the Future," will address critical issues such as climate change, anti-Asian hate, economic and social inequities, and mobility challenges for older adults. Register and join us for an inspiring program featuring guest speakers, networking opportunities, and vital resources to foster community resilience and equity.
Short Stories
Lineworker Scholarship Closing May 9
If you’re looking for a new career path, now is the time to apply for the Lineworker Scholarship, which awards up to $25,000.
The program is funded by Edison International shareholders and IBEW Local 47. It covers the cost of tuition, tools and support services needed to complete required training at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College.
The scholarship is open to applicants with demonstrated financial need. For details on eligibility criteria and to apply by May 9, visit Lineworker Scholarship | EIX.
Funding and Learning Opportunities for EV Infrastructure
- Transit Agency Fleet Electrification Learning Session: Join us on Tue., May 13, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for an exclusive virtual session designed for transit agencies exploring or actively deploying electric buses. Learn directly from the leaders who've done it - what worked, what didn't, and what you can apply to your own fleet plans.
- Rural Electric Vehicle Charging 2.0: There is $10 million in available grant funding for projects that will install light duty EV charging infrastructure in rural communities. Submission deadline: May 23.
- Charging Interoperability and Collaboration Yard: A $4 million grant aimed at creating a neutral space for industry collaboration, knowledge sharing, interoperability testing, and conformance testing for electric vehicle charging equipment. Submission deadline: June 4.
- Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicle Port Infrastructure: Up to $40 million in grant funds are set to be deployed to support projects that will install medium- and heavy-duty EV charging infrastructure or hydrogen refueling infrastructure for CA seaports or land ports of entry. Submission deadline: June 13.
Recent Legislation Introduced in the State
- SB 540: The bill provides a crucial framework for the evolution of an expanded regional electricity market, allowing California to access a broader portfolio of clean energy resources and at a lower overall cost. While doing this, it also retains California's control over key policy as it applies to the state, including environmental regulations, procurement mandates and reliability standards. (SCE Supports; Current Status: Pass Sen. Judiciary Committee)
- SB 254: This bill systematically undercuts established utility ratemaking principles supporting necessary grid hardening and clean energy investments, while ignoring external factors that drive up utility rates and impact customer affordability. (SCE Opposes; Current Status: Pass Sen. Energy, Utilities & Communications Committee)
Workshop Helps Pilots Avoid Air Strikes
SCE hosted its second Wire Avoidance Seminar to teach pilots how to detect and avoid power lines while flying. Nearly 140 pilots from various agencies, including local police and fire departments, attended the event. This training is crucial for improving safety and preventing accidents, especially during wildfire mitigation and equipment inspections. By sharing this knowledge, SCE is helping to protect lives and enhance safety in our region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is SCE's Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) decision making process?
Answer: SCE may decide to shut off power during dangerous fire weather conditions based on weather forecasts, fire modeling, and real-time guidance from experts. We consider factors like strong winds and dry vegetation that could cause fires. PSPS is used as a last resort to prevent wildfires from starting, and we must balance reducing wildfire risk with the impact on customers and community safety.
Please Submit Your Questions: If you have a question related to SCE and our electrical service, please send to us in one of two ways:
- Contact your local SCE Government Relations Manager and pose the question.
- Send the question directly to our communications staff at SCE.LocalPublicAffairs@SCE.com.
We will go through all questions and answer them in priority order, based on the most popular or frequently asked. Answers will appear each month in this newsletter. Thank you for your interest and engagement with SCE Local Public Affairs!
News Archive
Here you will find our recent content, including past newsletters, toolkits, and videos. Visit our Local Public Affairs archive.
Sign Up for SCE Newsletters
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A Weekly Newsletter captures all the Edison digital stories published during the week.
A Wildfire Mitigation Newsletter brings you the latest on SCE's efforts to reduce wildfire threats to the communities we serve.
- 29 Apr 2025 by Koegle Law Group, APC
Starting a new business? One of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the right legal structure. Your choice—whether an LLC, corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship—can have lasting impacts on your taxes, personal liability, and growth opportunities.
At Koegle Law Group, we help business owners navigate these decisions with confidence. In our latest article, we explain:
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The key differences between LLCs, corporations, and partnerships
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How each structure affects your taxes and legal protections
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Practical tips for choosing the best fit for your goals
Ready to make an informed choice?
👉 Read the full article here.This article was originally published by Koegle Law Group, proudly serving businesses in Santa Clarita and beyond.
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- 28 Apr 2025 by SCV Jobs - SCVJOBS.com
Santa Clarita Valley Employment Center and SCV Job Board - SCVJOBS.com
One-Stop shop for all SCV careers/jobs for over 20 years!
Proudly serving Santa Clarita Valley employers and job seekers for over two decades. Simply SCV jobs posted by Santa Clarita Valley employers. No email or phone harvesting, redirects, scams, fake or dated jobs, phony resumes, etc... SCV's #1 Job Board, serving...
Canyon Country ✦ Castaic ✦ Newhall ✦ Santa Clarita ✦ Saugus ✦ Stevenson Ranch ✦ Valencia ✦ Westridge
- 23 Apr 2025 by Mental Health Hook-Up
Stop the Stigma: A Community Call to Action on Mental Health
Join us on May 10th for Stop the Stigma, a community-driven event dedicated to breaking down misconceptions around mental health. Hosted by Mental Health Hook-Up, this event is designed to foster open conversations, connect individuals with resources, and build a stronger, stigma-free Santa Clarita Valley.
📍 Location: Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Campus | 23803 McBean Parkway Santa Clarita, CA 91355
🕒 Time: 10 AM - 2 PM (Speeches begin at 11 AM)Whether you're a mental health advocate, a concerned family member, or someone seeking support, your voice matters. This is more than just an event—it's a movement.
What to Expect:
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Inspiring speakers with lived experience
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Resource booths and local mental health organizations
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Open dialogue on how stigma affects access to care
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Opportunities to connect, learn, and support one another
Together, we can rewrite the narrative around mental health. Join us and be part of the change.
For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stop-the-stigma-scv-2025-tickets-1242550585249
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- 15 Apr 2025 by Elevate Virtual Business Solutions
Happy clients stick around longer and shout your praises to their network, friends, and colleagues.
We all know it’s far more valuable to maintain an existing client than to land a new client, so keeping our clients happy clearly benefits our bottom line. For a lot of CEOs and business leaders, having happy, well-cared-for clients is also an important core value.
But how do you know if your clients are truly happy? And how do you know how well you’re managing client relationships?
It can be hard to tell. Many CEOs assume that everyone is happy until a problem pops up or a client leaves.
Because we are always working on being more proactive than reactive, a “wait and see” approach isn’t going to cut it when it comes to monitoring, measuring, and improving client relationships and retention.
At Elevate, we’re passionate about building long-term, meaningful relationships, and we have developed a number of systems and strategies to support this priority.
Keep reading to see what mistakes you may be making in this area and what you can do to improve your own client relationships and retention!
5 client relationship + retention mistakes to avoid
You don’t always know when you’re making a mistake with your client relationships. You may have a client who doesn’t speak up, so you assume everything is working well, and then suddenly… they’re mad and ending their contract.
We’ve also seen many cases where client relationships aren’t prioritized because there is a set beginning and end to the work or project as opposed to an ongoing retainer. But even if you’re not meant to keep a client forever, you still want to ensure they have a positive experience so they speak highly of your business and recommend you to others when their work with you is complete.
Here are the top 5 client relationship and retention mistakes you want to avoid:
- Being reactive: This looks like waiting until there is a problem to try to solve it. Great client retention includes identifying potential issues while they are still small (or before they’ve even occurred) and solving them proactively.
- Being inflexible with your services or solutions: This happens when a client signs up for a service that isn’t the best fit or when they have a slightly unorthodox need or request to make a service work for them. Unnecessary inflexibility can kill a client relationship in a snap.
- Poor communication: Unclear, inconsistent, and closed communication leads to more unhappy clients than almost anything else.
- Only focusing on problems: Don’t forget to identify wins and celebrate the milestones and achievements with your clients!
- Failing to reflect: Whenever feedback is gathered or shared (whether it’s positive or negative), you and your team should spend time digging into the information and reflecting on what you can or should do differently in the future.
How to improve client relationships and retention
The number one way to improve client relationships is simply to care about the people you work with.
When you bring compassion, empathy, and a desire to serve to your work, your clients will naturally feel valued, appreciated, and supported. Making sure your team members and employees share these values is also an important part of building and maintaining a client-focused culture.
At Elevate, we work with a number of different CEOs, leaders, and organizations, which gives us a sneak peek into what’s working and what needs to change when it comes to client retention. We also prioritize this area in our own business, so we have a number of proven systems and smart strategies to help you!
- A 360-degree structure for internal communication + collaboration: Create meeting structures that include individual contributors and leadership across departments. This keeps teams connected and ensures important details aren’t missed.
- Proactive engagement with clients: Use Quarterly Action Plan meetings to collaborate with clients and supplement them with consistent check-ins to celebrate wins and identify opportunities for change.
- A flexible, growth-minded focus: Elevate encourages clients and team members to identify gaps and suggest improvements. This openness fosters innovation and satisfaction on both sides.
Automate and streamline your client retention processes
As you focus on improving your own client relationships and retention, there are platforms and software we highly recommend to automate the process where you can without losing the human connection and touch that matters most.
- Start with a CRM to automate as much as possible:
We recommend Dubsado! It's highly customizable and our MVP platform. We automate check-in emails, customize content per client, and use it to send branded proposals, forms, and questionnaires.
- Use a Project Management System to keep everyone on track:
We use ClickUp to manage client communication and internal notes like preferences and personal details. It ensures all departments stay aligned and responsive.
- Create custom Zaps to save time:
Zapier allows you to connect different tools and automate tasks. For example, we use it to schedule small treats like Starbucks gift cards for our clients.
If you need advice from a client relationship expert or help operationalizing your client retention efforts, you can always schedule a 1:1 Operations Call with our founder, Ashley Carlson.
We’re here to support you!
- 14 Apr 2025 by Koegle Law Group, APC
When shaping the future of your company, your hiring choices lay the foundation for your team's success. At Koegle Law Group, we’ve witnessed firsthand how a thoughtful approach to recruitment and timely personnel decisions can strengthen your organization.
Let’s explore why the philosophy of “hire slow, fire fast” serves as a smart, protective strategy for any business:
Don't Rush It
Bringing on a new employee isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about securing someone who brings the right expertise and fits seamlessly into your company culture. Too often, employers fast-track this process out of urgency, increasing the risk of a poor fit.
Our recommendation? Slow things down. Schedule multiple rounds of interviews, involving different team members at each stage. This comprehensive approach offers deeper insight into the candidate’s capabilities and how they might integrate with your existing team.
Prioritize Culture Alongside Skills
While technical ability matters, cultural alignment is just as vital. Ask yourself: Will this individual collaborate well with your current staff? Do they share your organizational values and preferred communication styles? These considerations foster not only workplace harmony but also long-term employee retention and satisfaction.
A strong cultural match boosts morale, improves productivity, and sets the stage for enduring professional success.
Protect Yourself Along The Way
Detailed documentation is your safeguard throughout hiring and termination processes. Maintain clear records of candidate evaluations, performance feedback, and any disciplinary actions. In the event of legal scrutiny, well-kept documentation provides critical evidence that your decisions were fair and consistent.
Fire Fast
Parting ways with an employee is never easy, but keeping someone who underperforms can weigh heavily on your team and overall business health. If performance falls short or if an employee disrupts workplace dynamics, it’s important to act decisively.
Many businesses hesitate to terminate because they fear the gap left behind. However, retaining the wrong team member can lead to greater costs — from reduced morale to potential liability. Address performance problems early, and document concerns thoroughly to ensure you’re making an informed and defensible decision.
Closing Argument
Embracing the “hire slow, fire fast” approach helps cultivate a resilient, effective team while minimizing legal and operational risks. Thoughtful hiring practices, combined with prompt action on underperformance, set your business on a path to sustained success.
At Koegle Law Group, we partner with employers to navigate the complexities of workforce management with confidence. If you need experienced guidance on hiring practices or termination procedures, we’re here to support you.
Learn more at the KLG Blog, or contact us today at (661) 362-0813.
- 08 Apr 2025 by Vance Wealth
Santa Clarita-based wealth management firm welcomes three internal leaders to ownership team
Santa Clarita, Calif. — Vance Wealth, a leading financial planning firm headquartered in Santa Clarita, is proud to announce a significant milestone in the firm’s growth: the transition of ownership to three long-time internal leaders. Vice Presidents Jerrod Ferguson, CFP®; Tyler Tilton, CFP®, CEPA®; and Chief Operating Officer & Chief Compliance Officer Chris Pelch have officially become part owners of the firm.
Founder and CEO John Vance made the intentional decision to sell ownership internally to preserve the firm’s independence, culture, and commitment to client care—solidifying a vision for long-term success that stays rooted in Vance Wealth values.
“When running a financial services firm, succession planning is essential,” Vance shared. “We needed a long-term plan that protects our clients, our team, and the firm. Growing ownership from within was the right way to do that.”
This move not only ensures continuity for clients but also creates a clear path to ownership for the next generation of Vance Wealth leaders.
“Personally, this opportunity is incredibly meaningful—it’s a chance to deepen my roots in a firm that has been an integral part of my professional journey and life in general,” Ferguson shared. “Julie and I made this decision together because she believes in this place just as much as I do. That shared belief made this a natural next step, and I’m honored to carry forward the values and vision that brought us here.”
That same spirit of growth and commitment to the firm’s future is what inspired Tilton to take this step as well.
“This isn’t just a personal achievement—it’s a shared win,” Tilton added. “We have an exceptional team, and I’m committed to helping build and develop the talent around me so we can continue raising the bar for our clients. This next chapter is about growth, impact and staying true to the values that brought us here.”
Chris Pelch echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the long-term legacy and responsibility that comes with ownership.
“Over the past eight years, I’ve seen firsthand how Vance Wealth changes lives—not just for our clients, but for our team too,” Pelch expressed. “What excites me most is building something that lasts: an institution that supports our clients and team for generations. That’s the legacy we’re creating together.”
The firm’s growth also means Vance Wealth can serve more people with the thoughtful, values-based planning that sets the firm apart.
“Our approach helps families and business owners pursue financial security and generational wealth with confidence—expanding our reach allows us to extend that impact to even more individuals and communities,” John explained.
Since the firm has historically donated 1-2% of its annual revenue to local nonprofits, as the firm grows, so does its capacity to support the communities Vance Wealth calls home.
But to be clear—this is not a farewell.
“I have no plans to retire,” Vance laughed. “I love what we do here and plan to be a part of it for the next 25 years.”
At Vance Wealth, growth has never been about one person, but about building something meaningful together. This milestone is a celebration of that vision—and a promise to keep moving forward with the same heart, purpose and care that brought the firm to his exciting moment.
About Vance Wealth
More Information about each new owner can be found at vancewealth.com/about-us/#our-team.
Since 2003, Vance Wealth has served as a premier financial planning practice passionately committed to helping clients and families succeed at every step of their financial journey. Based in Santa Clarita, the firm serves Southern California, with offices in Pasadena and Newport Beach, and the practice delivers innovative and comprehensive wealth management strategies precisely customized to each client’s goals and needs. To schedule a consultation and learn more, please call 661.775.0950, email info@vanceweath.com or visit VanceWealth.com.
Disclosures: Vance Wealth, LLC (“Vance Wealth”) is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Vance Wealth and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.
CONTACT
Shanele Stoll
Sales & Marketing Manager
- 07 Apr 2025 by City of Santa Clarita
The 29th Annual Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival makes its anticipated return to William S. Hart Park (24141 Newhall Avenue) this upcoming weekend! Residents are encouraged to prepare for road closures around the event site and plan transportation accordingly for Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13.
The 2025 Cowboy Festival, taking place at William S. Hart Park, is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the area for an incredible event that takes you back in time to the Old West, featuring live musical performances, living history experiences, delicious food and drinks, as well as fun activities for the whole family. Beginning Friday, April 11, roads in the area will be closed for festival transportation and set up. Please plan a different route in advance of the closures below, which will be in place until Sunday, April 13 at 8:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 11 at 8:00 p.m.
- Newhall Avenue will be closed between Market Street and 4th Street
- Main Street will be closed from 6th Street to the Roundabout
Free parking will be offered at the Cowboy Festival Shuttle Site, located in the dirt lot on 13th Street and Railroad Avenue. From there, attendees can hop on one of Santa Clarita Transit’s buses, which will transport them to and from William S. Hart Park on Saturday, April 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
In addition, attendees can take Routes 4/14, 5/6 and 12 via Santa Clarita Transit to get to the Cowboy Festival, and if you dress in western attire, your ride is free! You can also utilize the City’s rideshare service, GO! Santa Clarita. For route schedules, visit SantaClaritaTransit.com.
Alternatively, residents east of Railroad Avenue and Bouquet Canyon Road can hop aboard the Metrolink at the Via Princessa, Vista Canyon or Santa Clarita stations for a quick ride to the Newhall Metrolink Station, which is only a 10-minute walk from William S. Hart Park. This year, the City of Santa Clarita is partnering with Metrolink to give away two exclusive Cowboy Cantina passes, which allows for special access to the festival. This promotion is available for Metrolink subscribers only, so, if interested, subscribe at SoCalExplorer.MetrolinkTrains.com.
Railroad Avenue and Lyons Avenue will remain open to traffic throughout the duration of the Cowboy Festival. Motorists are asked to be aware of road closures and allow for extra travel time through Old Town Newhall throughout the event.
For more information regarding Cowboy Festival events, and to purchase tickets to special performances, please visit CowboyFestival.org.
- Friday, April 11 at 8:00 p.m.
- 02 Apr 2025 by City of Santa Clarita
Requests for Proposals Process Begins for Dining Space
American Sports Entertainment Company (ASEC) and the LA Kings, collectively referred to as JV Ice at The Cube, are seeking proposals to license restaurant and bar space at The Cube – Ice and Entertainment Center, powered by FivePoint Valencia, located at 27745 Smyth Drive in Valencia. The Cube opened to the public in April 2021, and is the premier ice-skating arena in the area and draws crowds of hockey players, figure skaters, speed skaters and general public skaters daily.
The City of Santa Clarita owns The Cube, which is operated by JV Ice at The Cube. The 93,000 square-foot facility features three sheets of ice – an NHL rink, Olympic rink and The Pond – as well as the restaurant and Top Shelf beverage center on the second floor. With many daily sessions, games, practices and open sessions, The Cube has constant traffic with heightened crowds during tournaments, competitions and other events. In 2024, the Cube brought in nearly 450,000 individuals. The Grille at The Cube has averaged $70,000 per month which includes sales from the bar.
Approximately 4,650 square feet of restaurant space is available on the second floor at The Cube. Contained within this space is a 1,030 square-foot kitchen, a bar and two patron seating areas. It is preferred that the restaurant operator will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a variety of drink options and adult beverages, and partner with The Cube on food for birthday parties and events.
Interested parties can submit proposals through May 15, 2025. Each Request for Proposals (RFP) can be accessed by visiting TheCubeSantaClarita.com. Proposals must be submitted via email to The Cube’s General Manager, Darin Mathewson at darin.mathewson@asecllc.com.
- 02 Apr 2025 by SCV Water
New Rate Schedule in Effect July 1, 2025
After a nine-month process pursuant to requirements set forth in California’s Proposition 218, the SCV Water Board of Directors concluded its rate study and voted to implement proposed rate changes following a public hearing on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. The water rate adjustments will go into effect July 1, 2025, and increase per the approved schedule on July 1 of each subsequent year in the rate study (2026, 2027, 2028, 2029).
“The approved rate proposal will help ensure SCV Water meets its financial obligations so it can continue to provide high-quality water to customers,” said SCV Water Chief Financial and Administrative Officer Rochelle Patterson. “We are thankful to the many SCV Water customers who participated in this important process by attending a public meeting or workshop and providing feedback.”
The entire process was a collaborative effort between SCV Water staff, the Board of Directors, and staff from RDN, the Agency’s independent ratepayer advocate. SCV Water’s Cost of Service and Rate Design began in July 2024 and consisted of seven phases:
- Data Collection
- Revenue Requirements
- Cost of Service Study
- Rate Design Analysis
- Administrative Record – Prop 218 Notice Creation
- Communication
- Public Hearing and Rate Adoption
As a public agency, SCV Water cannot earn a profit from the services it provides. The Agency must charge no more than the actual costs associated with providing water services to its customers.
Beginning July 1, SCV Water customers will see a change in their Water Use Charge, which is based on the amount of water used during a billing cycle. The rate will increase from $2.52 to $2.77 per ccf, with one ccf equaling 748 gallons of water. Additionally, monthly Fixed charges, which vary by meter size, will also increase. For the average SCV Water customer with a ¾-inch meter, the charge will go from $22.21 to $23.60 per month.
Changes have also been approved for Legacy Debt charges and Private Fire charges. Full cost breakdowns by meter size over the entire study period (July 2025 – June 2030) can be found by visiting yourSCVWater.com/rate-planning.
Before approving the new rates, SCV Water conducted extensive public outreach and education. This included multiple online community meetings, presentations at Board of Director and Committee meetings, and an online bill estimator tool to help customers understand how the changes would affect them.
The Rate Planning webpage (yourSCVwater.com/rate-planning) served as a central resource, providing access to the Ratepayer Advocate Report and 2025 Retail Water Rate Analysis and Rate Design Study. It also features helpful customer resources, such as an online question form, a guide on how to read your water bill, and information about the Agency’s Ratepayer Assistance Program.
Customers may review all materials online at the Rate Planning webpage listed above.
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About SCV Water:
The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency (SCV Water) is a full-service regional water agency located in the Santa Clarita Valley. SCV Water provides water service to approximately 75,000 business and residential customers. It was formed on January 1, 2018, when local water suppliers combined into one integrated, regional water provider. More information can be found at yourSCVwater.com. - 01 Apr 2025 by Southern California Edison
CONTENTS
1 | Streamlining EV Charging Permits
2 | Safely Installing ADU's
3 | Edison for the Record
4 | Edison Scholar Announcements
5 | Wildfire Legislation in Sacramento
6 | FAQ: Wildfire Preparedness
Streamlining EV Charging Station Permits
The California Attorney General's (AG) Office issued a Legal Alert to local jurisdictions, emphasizing the importance of streamlining the permitting process for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. This initiative supports California's important clean air goals and increased EV ownership will only accelerate as the state phases out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles. At Southern California Edison (SCE), we are committed to helping customers make that transition through a multifaceted approach focused on affordability, awareness, and the availability of EV charging infrastructure.
The AG's document highlights five common compliance issues among local jurisdictions:
- Applying local zoning regulations to EV charging station permit applications.
- Requiring discretionary review for certain types of installations.
- Considering impacts beyond health and safety requirements.
- Exceeding timelines for permit application review and approval.
- Failing to adopt or publish an expedited permitting ordinance or checklist.
Fortunately, local governments and permitting agencies have a key role in this effort through their permitting procedures, and two existing state laws (AB 1236 and AB 970) provide helpful direction for local authorities to review permit applications more quickly. Streamlining permitting helps local residents, businesses, property owners, and any others who plan to install charging stations. This alert serves as a reminder of the critical role local governments play in facilitating the transition to cleaner, more sustainable transportation options.
Safely Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can provide much-needed housing and extra income for homeowners. However, safety is paramount. SCE advises contacting us before starting any ADU construction to ensure work around power lines is done safely. This step helps prevent accidents and ensures a smooth permitting process. SCE can assist with temporary power solutions and guide you on maintaining a safe distance from overhead and underground power lines.
By working with SCE, you can help your community build safely and efficiently. Let's prioritize safety and support the creation of more affordable housing options through well-planned ADU projects. For more safety tips and information, visit ADU Installation Safety | Energized
Edison for the Record
A recent Los Angeles Times article about the Eaton Fire misrepresents the facts. Despite SCE sharing relevant information with the reporter, the Times published a story that used information out of context. SCE remains committed to a transparent and thorough investigation and continues to work cooperatively with all interested parties.
Click here to find some of the corrections we made. For additional updates to recent media articles, online content and social media posts, follow this link.
Short Stories
Edison Scholars Announced
Southern California Edison is proud to announce the 2025 Edison Scholars! This year, 30 high school seniors have been awarded $50,000 scholarships to pursue their dreams in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). These outstanding students have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. You can see the list of winners here.
California Climate Credit
This April, SCE's residential and many small business utility bills will include a $56.00 credit identified as the "California Climate Credit." Funding for the credit comes from California’s Greenhouse Gas Cap-and-Trade Program, which aims to reduce GHG emissions by requiring power plants, fuel providers and large industrial facilities that emit greenhouse gases to buy carbon pollution allowances. Since 2014, SCE residential households have already received a cumulative average of $978 in California Climate Credits on their electric utility bills, totaling nearly $9.4 billion in cumulative benefits statewide. Click here for more information about the Climate Credit.
State Legislators Introduce Wildfire Legislation
Two bills to look out for in this legislative session are:
- Senate Bill 332 (Sen. Aisha Wahab): The Investor-Owned Utilities Accountability Act would mandate the State Energy Commission to study successor entities to replace state IOUs, and shift costs of rebuilding infrastructure, undergrounding and wildfire fund to shareholders
- Senate Bill 256 (Sen. Sasha Perez): This measure would state the intent of the state legislature to enhance resiliency and reliability of electrical infrastructure in areas prone to wildfires and other natural disasters by requiring utilities to prioritize undergrounding, microgrids, and requiring the Public Utilities Commission to strengthen PSPS standards and accountability measures. The measure would also require electrical corporations to provide instant access to utility data related to faults on electric lines when a natural disaster occurs.
Just Launched: Total Cost of
Ownership Calculator
Want to see how much EVs can save your fleet? SCE’s new Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Calculator makes it EASY! See your lifetime EVs savings potential, annual electric vs. diesel costs, and fuel savings per mile. Start planning your electric fleet savings today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are some best practices for wildfire preparedness?
Answer: Following these practices can help you and your community stay safe and prepared in the event of a wildfire:
- Create Defensible Space: Clear vegetation and other flammable materials around your home to create a buffer zone that can slow the spread of wildfire.
- Harden Your Home: Use fire-resistant building materials for roofs, walls, and decks. Install screens on vents to prevent embers from entering.
- Develop an Emergency Plan: Have a plan that includes evacuation routes, communication strategies, and a list of essential items to take with you. Create an emergency kit that includes items like water, food, medications, important documents, and personal protective equipment.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts and warnings. Monitor weather conditions and fire danger levels. Adhere to local fire safety codes and ordinances. Participate in community wildfire protection plans.
Please Submit Your Questions: If you have a question related to SCE and our electrical service, please send to us in one of two ways:
- Contact your local SCE Government Relations Manager and pose the question.
- Send the question directly to our communications staff at SCE.LocalPublicAffairs@SCE.com.
We will go through all questions and answer them in priority order, based on the most popular or frequently asked. Answers will appear each month in this newsletter. Thank you for your interest and engagement with SCE Local Public Affairs!
News Archive
Here you will find our recent content, including past newsletters, toolkits, and videos. Visit our Local Public Affairs archive.
Sign Up for SCE Newsletters
Energized by Edison is our company's digital platform for storytelling. You can sign up to receive two different newsletters:
A Weekly Newsletter captures all the Edison digital stories published during the week.
A Wildfire Mitigation Newsletter brings you the latest on SCE's efforts to reduce wildfire threats to the communities we serve.
Got questions about this month’s newsletter? Email us at SCE.LocalPublicAffairs@SCE.com.
Southern California Edison | 2244 Walnut Grove Ave G001 Quad 4D 478P | Rosemead, CA 91770 US
- 31 Mar 2025 by City of Santa Clarita
The City of Santa Clarita encourages residents to dispose of their unwanted household hazardous and electronic waste at the FREE Household Hazardous/E-Waste Collection Event on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event will take place at College of the Canyons South Parking Lot at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road.
The Household Hazardous/E-Waste Collection Event is a safe and free opportunity for residents to dispose of their hazardous household and electronic waste (e-waste), including antifreeze, paint, paint thinner, turpentine, motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid, cleaners with acid or lye, pool chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, household batteries or car batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, unwanted or expired prescription medications, televisions, computers and other miscellaneous electronics such as cell phones, printers and stereos. Needles or sharps disposal will require exiting your vehicle in a designated location to deposit them in a bin.
In preparation for the event, waste items should be packed in a sturdy box, preferably in their original labeled container, in the trunk of the participant’s vehicle. Participants should be prepared to leave any containers or boxes at the collection site and must remain in their vehicle while trained staff removes the hazardous waste from the vehicle’s trunk.
Items not eligible for disposal include:
- Ammunition, radioactive materials and explosives
- Controlled substances and biohazardous
- “White goods” including refrigerators, water heaters and other similar domestic appliances
- Waste from businesses
All Los Angeles County residents are welcome to attend the Household Hazardous Waste/E-Waste Collection event. Reservations are not needed to participate. A transportation limit of 125 pounds or 15 gallons per vehicle is enforced. Reminder: attendees must remain in their vehicles and event staff will only remove waste from a vehicle’s trunk or pick-up bed.
This event is hosted by the City of Santa Clarita, in partnership with the County of Los Angeles and organized by the Department of Public Works and the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County.
For more information about the Household Hazardous Waste/E-Waste Collection Event and additional household hazardous waste permanent collection centers, visit PW.LACounty.gov/EPD/HHW/ or call (888) CLEAN LA. Visit GreenSantaClarita.com to learn more about upcoming green events and other resources.
- 26 Mar 2025 by Gibbon Conservation Center
Rocky, the youngest Javan gibbon at the Gibbon Conservation Center in Saugus, will turn 2 years old on July 2, and the Center is seeking help in getting him a birthday gift.
Rocky was rejected at birth by his mother and has been raised by the experts and volunteers at the Gibbon Center.
A fundraising effort to build “Rocky’s House,” an enclosure for the youngster has raised enough money to build a structure with insulation, specialty windows and plenty of attachment points for enrichment.
However, the structure still needs specialty paint, a specialty heating and air conditioning unit with the potential to hook up to solar panels and platforms for sleeping and relaxing.
The Gibbon Conservation Center was established in 1976 by Alan Richard Mootnick who died in 2011.
The center houses the rarest group of apes in the Western Hemisphere. It is the only institution in the world to house and breed all four genera of gibbon, an endangered small ape, and has successfully reproduced seven gibbon species.
The center also provides observation and non-invasive research opportunities for students and scientists.
To donate click here.
For more information about the Gibbon Conservation Center, how to visit the center or to donate click here.
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