July 25, 2025 · Board of Directors
All Consent Calendar items are listed at the end of the agenda.
7.A Settlement Agreement with Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC for the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project Approval is needed to issue the payment to Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC for property needed for the construction of the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project. Contracts, Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Committee recommended (4-0) that the Board authorize the Chief Executive Officer to issue payment to Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC for $1,995,000 plus$119,797.19 in statutory interest and cost for a total not-to-exceed amount of$2,114,797.19 for 5 parcels needed for the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project. The amount for which contract authority is requested ($2,114,797.19) will be covered by the SCORE Program Capital Budget and funded with TIRCP funds granted by CalSTA through the SCORE Program. Note: Because $579,000 has already been deposited into the State Treasurer's Compensation Deposits Fund, the remaining balance of $1,535,797.19 will be transferred from the project's available budget. 7.B Contract No. SP619-25 - Olympics Planning Support Services - Increase Contract Authority - Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. Dedicated, long-term, multidisciplinary consulting services are needed to support the continuation and refinement of the Authority's planning for the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics (the Games). Increased contract authority is needed to continue and initiate the next phase of additional planning activities identified in the Scope of Work and consistent with the original contract award. Executive Committee recommended (3-0) that the Board to authorize the Chief Executive Officer to increase the not-to-exceed (NTE) contract authority for Contract No. SP619-25 with Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. for Olympics Board of Directors Meeting July 25, 2025 3 Planning Support Services by $1,200,000, from the current $510,000 to a new total NTE of $1,710,000. All other terms and conditions of the contract will remain the same. The requested increase in contract authority in the amount of $1,200,000 is included in the Authority's approved FY26 Operating Budget. The amount for future work will be included in future year budgets. There is no financial commitment with respect to subsequent years, and work will be authorized only if funding is approved. 7.C Student Adventure Pass Pilot Program Summary Staff is providing an update of the Student Adventure Pass pilot program for the period of October 2023 through June 2025. Receive and file. 7.D July Legislative Update Staff provides a regular monthly update on current legislative affairs. Receive and file.
Authority Update
A. PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT – Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957(b)(1) Title: Chief Executive Officer B. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR – Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 Agency Designated Representative: Chair Doug Chaffee Unrepresented Employee: Chief Executive Officer
12.A Approval of Meeting Minutes - June 27, 2025 Regular Board Meeting It is recommended that the Board approve the Minutes of the June 27, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. 12.B Internal Audit - Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Audit Plan The Internal Audit Department (Internal Audit) completed the FY 2026 Annual Audit Plan and is requesting Board approval. Board of Directors Meeting July 25, 2025 4 Audit and Finance Committee recommended (3-0) the Board approve the proposed FY2026 Annual Audit Plan. There is no budgetary impact as a result of this report. 12.C Amendment to FY2025-26 Operating Budget to Carry Forward Funding Amounts Remaining on the San Clemente Landslide Stabilization Projects at June 30, 2025 Continuing activities at the four San Clemente slide locations, Cyprus Shores, Casa Romantica, Mariposa and Coastal Stabilization Areas 1, 2 & 4 re quire the remainder of funds approved for each project in prior year budgets to be carried forward to the FY26 Budget. Audit and Finance Committee recommended (3-0) the Board approve the Amendment to the FY2025-26 Budget to carry forward the funding for continuing expenses of the San Clemente Projects at Cyprus Shores (Mile Post (MP) 206.8), Casa Romantica (MP 204.6), and Mariposa (MP 204.2), and Coastal Stabilization Areas 1, 2 & 4. San Clemente #1 (Cyprus Shores) Approval of this amendment will carryforward "San Clemente #1" in FY26 below the operating line by $1,462,702. San Clemente #2 (Casa Romantica) Approval of the amendment will carryforward "San Clemente #2" in FY26 below the operating line by $2,829,628. San Clemente #3 (Mariposa) Approval of the amendment will carryforward "San Clemente #3" in FY26 below the operating line by $3,577,160. Coastal Stabilization- Area 1, 2, 4 Approval of the amendment will carryforward " Coastal Stabilization- Area 1, 2, 4" in FY26 below the operating line by $3,184,000. 12.D Senate Bill 1 Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) Resolution The Senate Bill 1 Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) requires that the Board adopt Resolution 2025-148 and delegate authority to negotiate and execute actions necessary to facilitate administration of the grant. The TCEP grant also requires entering into a baseline agreement with the CTC, Caltrans, and OCTA for use of the funds. Audit and Finance Committee recommended (3-0) the Board adopt Resolution 2025-148 and delegate authority to negotiate and execute actions necessary to facilitate administration of the grant. There is no budget impact as a result of this report. A budget amendment to support the next phase of work for the project was approved by the Board in June 2025. Board of Directors Meeting July 25, 2025 5 12.E Financial Results for the First Eleven Months of FY25 - May 2025 Ridership, Revenue, and Operating Results "Metrolink Reimagined" is the Metrolink term for the transition from commuter rail-based service to a regional provider of general transport. Initiatives designed to realize that transition require timely review of Ridership, Revenue, and Financial Operating Performance to provide assessment of the effectiveness of our efforts. Primary among these initiatives is the Optimized Service Schedule which began on October 21, 2024. This report covers monthly reporting on Ridership, Revenue, and Financial Operating Performance for the eleven months ended May 31, 2025. Receive and file. 12.F Cooperative Agreement No. C-10-3065 between Orange County Transportation Authority, City of Irvine and the Authority for the Marine Way Grade Separation and Borrego Channel Undercrossing Approval is required to execute the Cooperative Agreement No. C-10-3065 between the Orange County Transportation Authority, City of Irvine and the Authority for the Marine Way Grade Separation and Borrego Channel Undercrossing. Contracts, Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Committee recommended (4-0) that the Board authorize the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate and execute the Cooperative Agreement No. C-10-3065 between the Orange County Transportation Authority, City of Irvine and the Authority in an amount of $8,751,380 for the Marine Way Grade Separation and Borrego Channel Undercrossing. There is no budget impact since this is a Third Party funded Agreement. Cash flow impact will be mitigated by an advance deposit as described in the discussion section. 12.G Construction and Maintenance Agreement with Riverside County Transportation Commission for the Expansion of the Perris-South Station and Layover Facility Approval is required to execute the Construction and Maintenance Agreement between the Riverside County Transportation Commission and the Authority for the expansion of the Perris-South Station and Layover Facility. Contracts, Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Committee recommended (4-0) that the Board authorize the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate and execute the Construction and Maintenance Agreement between the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) and the Authority that will provide$5,794,800 of RCTC funding for Authority support services to the expansion of the Perris-South Station and Layover Facility. Board of Directors Meeting July 25, 2025 6 There is no budgetary impact as a result of this report since this is a Third Party funded Agreement. Cash flow impact will be mitigated by an advance deposit as described in the discussion section. 12.H Cooperative Agreement between Orange County Transportation Authority, the City of San Clemente and the Authority for the Pedestrian Audible Warning System (PAWS Rehabilitation Approval is required to execute the Cooperative Agreement between the Orange County Transportation Authority, City of San Clemente and the Authority for the Pedestrian Audible Warning System (PAWS) Rehabilitation. Contracts, Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Committee recommended (4-0) that the Board authorize the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate and execute the Cooperative Agreement between the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), City of San Clemente and the Authority that will provide $1,818,000 of OCTA funding for Authority support services to the Pedestrian Audible Warning System (PAWS) Rehabilitation. There is no budgetary impact as a result of this report since this is a Third Party funded Agreement. Cash flow impact will be mitigated by an advance deposit as described in the discussion section. 12.I Amendment No. 1 to Cooperative Agreement No. 23-33-021 with the Riverside County Transportation Commission for SCRRA Design Oversight of the Perris Valley Line Double Track Project Additional RCTC-provided funding is needed to allow the Authority to support RCTC efforts to complete the design of the Perris Valley Line Doule Track Project. Contracts, Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Committee recommended (4-0) that the Board authorize the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate and execute Amendment No. 1 to Cooperative Agreement No. 23-33-021 between the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) and the Authority to increase RCTC-provided funding in the amount of $574,320, from an amount of $488,400, for a new not-to-exceed total of $1,062,720 for Authority support on the project. There is no budget impact as this is a Third Party funded Agreement. To address Authority cash flow constraints, RCTC staff have agreed to provide a deposit of 50% of the Amendment #1 amount once the agreement is executed.
Board of Directors Meeting July 25, 2025 7 ITEM 7.A metrolinktrains.com/meeting ITEM ID: 2025-281-0 TRANSMITTAL DATE: July 18, 2025 MEETING DATE: July 25, 2025 TO: Board of Directors FROM: Justin Fornelli, Chief, Program Delivery SUBJECT: Settlement Agreement with Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC for the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project Issue Approval is needed to issue the payment to Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC for property needed for the construction of the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project. Recommendation Contracts, Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Committee recommended (4-0) that the Board authorize the Chief Executive Officer to issue payment to Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC for $1,995,000 plus $119,797.19 in statutory interest and cost for a total not-to-exceed amount of $2,114,797.19 for 5 parcels needed for the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project. Strategic Commitment This report aligns with the Strategic Business Plan commitment of: Advancing Key Regional Goals: We will grow the role of regional rail in addressing climate change, air quality, and other pressing issues by advancing toward zero emissions, making rail a compelling alternative to single-occupant automobiles and advancing equity-focused opportunities for all communities throughout Southern California. The SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project would enable additional capacity and service improvements on Metrolink’s Ventura County Line (VCL). 8 Background The key components of the SCORE Simi Valley Double Track Project (Project) are: Install 2.2 miles of second mainline track immediately adjacent to the existing mainline track Construct a second side platform at the Simi Valley Station with a connecting pedestrian underpass Install pedestrian safety equipment, warning devices, and new track panels at five existing grade crossings Construction of the project requires the acquisition of five (5) parcels from one (1) property owner: Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC. Immediately adjacent to the existing Simi Valley Station, where the new platform, pedestrian underpass, and improvements to the Hidden Ranch Drive grade crossing will be constructed, the Authority requires ROW Acquisitions for construction of the Project. The ROW Acquisitions are comprised of the following five (5) property parcels owned by Delaware Hidden Valley Grand Apartments, LLC (Delaware HVG Apts): a 4,104 square foot sub-surface Storm Drain Easement; a 1,987 square foot Temporary Construction Easement for a duration of 3 years; a 6,181 square foot Temporary Construction Easement for a duration of 3 years; a 4,762 square foot Temporary Construction Easement for a duration of 3 years; and a 55 square foot Permanent Acquisition (fee interest). All of the property parcels are not developed, are located on the railroad side of the existing barrier wall, and as such the impacts to Delaware HVG Apts and the local residents is minimal. Discussion In March 2023, the Authority undertook an independent appraisal of the five (5) property parcels and the total appraised value for all five (5) parcels combined was $579,000. On May 9, 2023, the Authority, in close coordination with VCTC, submitted a formal offer to Delaware HVG Apts to acquire the five (5) parcels for the total sum of $579,000. The owner of Delaware HVG Apts did not accept this offer and engaged legal counsel to negotiate terms of the property acquisition. On September 26, 2023, VCTC and the Authority met with Delaware HVG Apts, along with respective legal counsel. Delaware HVG Apts legal counsel stated that they would propose a counter-offer to VCTC and the Authority for consideration. Following the meeting, VCTC and the Authority determined that condemnation would likely be required given the circumstances and thereby commenced condemnation proceedings. On November 1, 2023, Delaware HVG Apts legal counsel formally submitted a counter-offer of $11,900,000 to VCTC and the Authority that was significantly greater than the appraised value. On November 3, 2023, the VCTC Commission approved the filing of the Resolution of Necessity, which was subsequently filed with the Ventura County Courthouse on December 11, 2023. In May 2024 VCTC deposited the appraised value of the parcels, $579,000, into the State Treasurer's Compensation Deposits Fund. On August 29, 2024 Authority & VCTC received the Order of Possession of the parcels. 9 On May 15, 2025 VCTC and the Authority reached a settlement with the Delaware HVG Apts. for a total amount of $1,995,000 plus $119,797.19 for statutory interest and costs, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $2,114,797.19 Budget Impact The amount for which contract authority is requested ($2,114,797.19) will be covered by the SCORE Program Capital Budget and funded with TIRCP funds granted by CalSTA through the SCORE Program. Note: Because $579,000 has already been deposited into the State Treasurer's Compensation Deposits Fund, the remaining balance of $1,535,797.19 will be transferred from the project's available budget. Next Steps Upon Board Authorization, a Stipulation for Entry of Final Judgment will be filed with the Court which then leads the Court to enter the Final Judgement in this case. Within 30-days of the Court's judgement, the Authority will be required to issue payment to the Delaware HVG Apts. Prepared by: David Szeto, Senior Manager, Program Delivery Maria Leible, Director of Design, Program Delivery Approved by: Justin Fornelli, Chief of Program Delivery 10 ITEM 7.B metrolinktrains.com/meeting ITEM ID: 2025-170-0 TRANSMITTAL DATE: July 18, 2025 MEETING DATE: July 25, 2025 TO: Board of Directors FROM: Paul Hubler, Chief Strategy Officer SUBJECT: Contract No. SP619-25 - Olympics Planning Support Services - Increase Contract Authority - Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. Issue Dedicated, long-term, multidisciplinary consulting services are needed to support the continuation and refinement of the Authority's planning for the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics (the Games). Increased contract authority is needed to continue and initiate the next phase of additional planning activities identified in the Scope of Work and consistent with the original contract award. Recommendation Executive Committee recommended (3-0) that the Board to authorize the Chief Executive Officer to increase the not-to-exceed (NTE) contract authority for Contract No. SP619-25 with Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. for Olympics Planning Support Services by $1,200,000, from the current $510,000 to a new total NTE of $1,710,000. All other terms and conditions of the contract will remain the same. Strategic Commitment This report aligns with the Strategic Business Plan Commitment of: Customers are our Business: We respect and value our customers, putting them at the heart of all we do, and work hard to attract and retain new customers by understanding their needs and finding new and innovative ways to delight them. The planning support services to be provided through this contract will help position the Authority to provide passenger rail service during the Games that is effective, efficient, and convenient to riders. 11 Background On November 14, 2025, the Board awarded Contract No. SP619-25 for Olympics Planning Support Services to Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. (Jacobs) with a: Total not-to-exceed (NTE) contract authority of $510,000 which is comprised of approximately $400,000 for the immediate work associated with Part 1 of the Scope of Work (SOW), and $110,000 to initiate other critical longer-term Olympics planning activities associated with Part 2 of the SOW; and Contractual term effective upon issuance of Notice to Proceed (NTP) through December 31, 2028. The SOW is divided into two main parts: Part 1 is focused on preparing a workplan and schedule for all of the multidisciplinary planning activities the Authority will need to undertake to prepare for the 2028 Games; and Part 2 is for as-needed support services to execute the workplan. The Board authorized about $400,000 to undertake Part 1 of the SOW, which is expected to be complete by July 2025. However, recognizing that there are critical longer-term Olympics planning activities associated with Part 2 of the SOW that needed to begin before Part 1 was completed, the Board also authorized about $110,000 to initiate this work immediately. Discussion Since work on Part 1 of the SOW began in early January 2025, Jacobs has (1) documented and presented lessons learned from previous Olympic games; (2) prepared a Strategic Implementation Framework for delivery of regional rail service during the Games; and (3) developed a workplan for specific planning activities needed to prepare Metrolink for the Games. The workplan currently includes approximately 60 multidisciplinary planning activities that need to get underway soon, in addition to another 80 mobilization and implementation activities that will need to be initiated as we get closer to the Games. Part 2 of the SOW is set up to allow Jacobs and its subconsultants to support the Authority in the completion of these planning, mobilization, and implementation activities on an as-needed basis. Recognizing the need to initiate some long-lead planning activities associated with Part 2 of the SOW while Part 1 was still underway, Jacobs and its subconsultants have begun performing Metrolink-specific regional demand modeling and are assisting in the development of Olympics-related fare collection strategies. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, the Authority will require subject matter expertise provided by Jacobs and its subconsultants to help execute Olympics planning activities included in the workplan, including (but not limited to): Performing a Threat and Vulnerability Assessment Developing a park-and-ride strategy for Metrolink stations Refining Games-related service scenarios Continuing ridership demand modeling Supporting federal and state grant pursuit efforts 12 The requested increase in contract authority in the amount of $1,200,000 is necessary to support this planning work in FY2026. Staff will return to the Board in the future for additional contract authority as needed. Budget Impact The requested increase in contract authority in the amount of $1,200,000 is included in the Authority's approved FY26 Operating Budget. The amount for future work will be included in future year budgets. There is no financial commitment with respect to subsequent years, and work will be authorized only if funding is approved. Next Steps Should the Board approve this recommendation, staff will direct Jacobs to continue work to support Olympics planning activities in FY26. Staff will return to the Board in the future for additional contract authority as needed. Prepared by: Michael Litschi, Director of Special Projects Brian Jacob, Planning Manager II Approved by: Paul Hubler, Chief Strategy Officer 13 ITEM 7.C metrolinktrains.com/meeting ITEM ID: 2025-277-0 TRANSMITTAL DATE: July 18, 2025 MEETING DATE: July 25, 2025 TO: Board of Directors FROM: Lisa Bahr, Chief Customer Experience Officer SUBJECT: Student Adventure Pass Pilot Program Summary Issue Staff is providing an update of the Student Adventure Pass pilot program for the period of October 2023 through June 2025. Recommendation Receive and file. Strategic Commitment This report aligns with the Strategic Business Plan commitment of: Customers Are Our Business: We respect and value our customers, putting them at the heart of all we do, and work hard to attract and retain new customers by understanding their needs and finding new and innovative ways to delight them. Background Launched in October 2023, the Student Adventure Pass pilot program provided free Metrolink rides to all enrolled students across our service area, including K through 12 schools, trade programs, community colleges, and universities. Initially funded by a $4 million grant from the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP), the program aimed to reduce barriers to transit, promote equitable access to opportunity, and build long-term ridership among students. At the time of launch, students made up just 17.6% of Metrolink’s ridership, and Metrolink offered students a 25% discount on regular fares. 14 Discussion The Student Adventure Pass quickly proved to be one of Metrolink’s most impactful pilot programs. In its first 12 months, student ridership surpassed expectations with more than 1.69 million boardings, significantly exceeding the original projection of 1.23 million. As the program nears its conclusion, students now represent 35% of total ridership, establishing themselves as one of Metrolink’s most engaged and consistent rider segments. Top Participating Colleges/Universities by County: College/University County Active Accounts Mobile Activations Cal State Northridge Los Angeles 3,667 125,051 Cal State LA Los Angeles 3,468 119,029 University of Southern Los Angeles 4,863 54,439 California Cal State Fullerton Orange County 4,102 96,557 UC Irvine Orange County 5,463 56,104 Westcliff University Orange County 407 16,694 UC Riverside Riverside County 6,520 68,740 Riverside Community Riverside County 1,466 18,397 College District La Sierra University Riverside County 142 1,403 Cal State San San Bernardino 1,164 10,331 Bernardino County San Bernardino University of Redlands 613 7,369 County San Bernardino City San Bernardino 916 6,882 College District County Ventura County Community College Ventura County 704 6,877 District Cal State Channel Ventura County 562 5,234 Islands Cal Lutheran 205 1,375 Ventura County University UC San Diego San Diego County 2,092 10,200 Cal State San Marcos San Diego County 441 2,907 San Diego State San Diego County 286 1,403 University Out of Service Area Various 4,067 25,430 The program played a critical role in expanding access to education, employment, and essential services by removing cost as a barrier to travel. At the same time, it introduced thousands of young people to Metrolink, helping them become familiar with the system and comfortable using it. By encouraging regular train use during a formative period, the program 15 helped establish lasting mobility habits and strengthened brand connection among a new generation of riders likely to continue using Metrolink as they graduate and enter the workforce. Through partnerships with more than 50 schools across Southern California, Metrolink promoted the Student Adventure Pass to an estimated 930,000 students. These efforts spanned a diverse mix of institutions, including high schools, community colleges, trade schools, public universities, and private universities. Each partner played a key role in amplifying the program through their own communication channels, including email newsletters, posters, campus signage, social media, and student events. All outreach was provided at no cost to Metrolink. This broad, collaborative effort significantly increased program visibility and played a vital role in driving awareness and adoption across the region. The Student Adventure Pass concluded on June 30, 2025, after successfully utilizing the full LCTOP grant due to overwhelming demand. The program far exceeded expectations and demonstrated a strong interest in student ridership. As Metrolink transitions from the pilot, the available funding will now support a permanent 50% student discount, double the 25% discount offered prior to the pilot. While staff explored opportunities to shift to a school- supported model, Metrolink does not currently have the staffing or infrastructure required to manage the complex coordination, billing, customer service, and technical systems such a model would entail. This next phase ensures continued affordability for students while allowing Metrolink to remain fiscally responsible and maintain high-quality service for all riders. Key Impacts: The Student Adventure Pass generated measurable and lasting benefits across ridership, brand growth, and community impact. Ridership Growth: Student ridership increased by 169% between September 2023, prior to the program’s launch in October 2023, and May 2025. Overall, the program has provided more than 3.5 million rides, with students now representing over one-third of total Metrolink ridership. Future Rider Development: A total of 77,357 students from 921 schools activated a Student Adventure Pass through the Metrolink mobile app. Survey results show that 48% of these students had never ridden Metrolink before the program. Among app users, 65% became repeat riders. Brand Loyalty and Equity: The program introduced tens of thousands of students to Metrolink, many of whom relied on it regularly. Nearly half of the survey respondents reported riding at least once a week, and 60% said they do not have regular access to a car. These results underscore the program’s role in building brand familiarity and delivering equitable mobility to students who need it most. Community Goodwill: The program strengthened Metrolink’s reputation among students, parents, educators, and institutional partners by demonstrating a commitment to accessible and affordable transportation. Operational Insights: Travel behavior data and survey feedback have provided valuable insights into student demand, travel frequency, and mode choice. This information will help shape future fare strategies and service planning. 16 While the Student Adventure Pass has concluded the program clearly demonstrated the benefits of removing cost barriers and the value of investing in student-focused initiatives. Staff will continue to explore new opportunities to support student mobility and strengthen efforts to cultivate the next generation of riders through sustainable, long-term strategies. In addition, Metrolink is actively engaged in efforts to promote funding for free fare transit programs at the state level, reinforcing our commitment to equitable access and long-term affordability. The insights gained from this pilot have positioned Metrolink to better meet the evolving needs of students and ensure that public transportation remains a relevant and reliable option throughout their lives. Metrolink remains committed to supporting student access to education through affordable train service and will continue to partner with Member Agencies, schools, colleges, and community organizations to promote transit access for students. As we transition to this new discount model, staff will focus on maintaining strong relationships with educational institutions, engaging directly with students, and implementing targeted strategies to retain and grow student ridership in the years ahead. Next Steps Staff will provide an update on the performance of the 50% discount in the second quarter of FY26. Prepared by: Amber Moyers, Manager I, Partnerships Approved by: Lisa Bahr, Chief Customer Experience Officer 17 ITEM 7.D metrolinktrains.com/meeting ITEM ID: 2025-267-0 TRANSMITTAL DATE: July 18, 2025 MEETING DATE: July 25, 2025 TO: Board of Directors FROM: Paul Hubler, Chief Strategy Officer SUBJECT: July Legislative Update Issue Staff provides a regular monthly update on current legislative affairs. Recommendation Receive and file. Strategic Commitment This report aligns with the Strategic Business Plan commitments of: Connecting and Leveraging Partnerships: We will forge new and enhanced relationships with our public and private partners to integrate and coordinate connecting services, providing residents throughout Southern California with better, seamless, sustainable alternatives to driving. This commitment is met by sharing news, information and the Authority’s legislative priorities with elected officials. Advancing Key Regional Goals: We will grow the role of regional rail in addressing climate change, air quality, and other pressing issues by advancing toward zero emissions, making rail a compelling alternative to single-occupant automobiles and advancing equity-focused opportunities for all communities throughout Southern California. This commitment is met by encouraging federal, state and local support for Authority priorities. 18 Background Staff continues to engage with community, local, state, and federal stakeholders concerning Metrolink service and relevant policy initiatives. Discussion Local Metrolink Strengthens Relationships in the San Fernando Valley On June 2, Rory Vaughn, senior planning manager, and Sylvia Novoa, public affairs manager, attended the San Fernando Valley Council of Governments Transportation Committee (COG) meeting. Attendees were provided an update on the status of Metrolink’s Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) grant application which seeks to fully fund the remaining balance of the Antelope Valley Line Capital and Service Improvements Phase 1. If awarded, the grant funds would deliver three of four AVL capital improvements in northern Los Angeles County. On June 4, community relations staff attended the third annual convening of more than 100 San Fernando Valley Nonprofits and Foundations. Metrolink staff attended to meet and add organizations and contacts to its current CBO and nonprofit database and to explore strengthening relationships with these organizations, particularly to ensure a robust Title VI outreach process in future efforts. Local Elected Outreach in the San Gabriel Valley As of this writing, Metrolink staff will participate in the San Gabriel Valley Public Affairs Network Legislative Networking reception on June 20, providing opportunity to meet with local elected officials and develop ties with the local elected representatives in our service region. On June 26, staff will join the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (COG) at an event to honor the outgoing and incoming governing board leadership. Metrolink continues to develop strong working relationships with local officials and constituent organizations in our service region. State Legislature’s Two-Party Agreement Responds to May Revise The Legislature voted on June 13 to pass a balanced FY25-26 State Budget. SB 101 (Budget and Fiscal Review) maintains $1.078 billion in Greenhouse Gas Reduction funding for formula TIRCP and ZETCP, which Governor Newsom had proposed cutting in his May Revise. This is welcome - but still tentative - news for transit agencies that rely heavily on these investment programs. As a next step, the Legislature will introduce a "Budget Bill Jr.," reflecting negotiations and an agreement with the Governor on transit investments and much more. Also expected in the coming months is trailer bill language extending the Cap-and-Trade program and associated expenditures. TIRCP and LCTOP are funded from cap-and-trade and Metrolink strongly encourages lawmakers to continue investing and consider increasing available support for these programs in the coming months. 19 House of Origin Deadline Passes June 6 was the deadline for the Senate and Assembly to pass bills that originated in their respective chambers. As a result, lawmakers voted on a flurry of legislation in late May and early June. AB 394 (Wilson), a bill that would provide transit agencies with new statutory tools for protecting transit workers against battery, was approved by a vote of 76 to 0. AB 394 was supported by Metrolink, the California Transit Association, and a large coalition of other transit agencies and unions. It now moves to the Senate. SB 30 (Cortese), which would prohibit public agencies from selling or donating decommissioned diesel engine locomotives, passed by a vote of 76 to 10. Metrolink, alongside other commuter rail agencies in the state, expressed concerns with the legislation in a letter sent to the bill author earlier this year. The legislation was amended to exempt Tier 2 and cleaner locomotives from the ban, subject to certain conditions, and now moves to the Assembly for consideration. SB 71 (Wiener) would permanently exempt certain clean transportation projects from CEQA requirements until January 1, 2040 and was passed unanimously by the Senate. The bill was amended to include rail capital and maintenance projects for the exclusive use of Tier 4 or zero emission locomotives. SB 741 (Blakespear) would amend the process associated with obtaining a permit from the California Coastal Commission for certain types of emergency work in the LOSSAN rail corridor. Disagreements exist on the impact of the proposed legislation on future emergency work. The bill passed the Senate 39-0 and now moves to the Assembly. Federal Support for Metrolink in FY26 Community Project Funding Lists Congress will shortly begin consideration of FY26 appropriations bills. As a part of that process, legislators have been submitting Community Project Funding lists – earmark requests – to the various appropriations committees. To date, four Metrolink projects have been included in the lists submitted by our delegation. They include a $1.33 million request from Congressman Whitesides for technology improvements on the Antelope Valley Line, $2.48 million from Congresswoman Brownley to support the Arroyo Simi Bridges Scour Mitigation Project, $625,000 from Congresswoman Friedman to update and replace customer information systems at the Glendale and Burbank stations, and $1.98 million from Senator Padilla security and infrastructure enhancements systemwide. We are expecting a final list of projects in the Senate and House versions of the Transportation-HUD bill by mid-July. Reconciliation Passes House but Faces an Uncertain Future On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 215-214 to pass H.R. 1, the budget reconciliation legislation. The legislation includes many of President Trump’s second term priorities, including funding for border security, immigration enforcement, and adjustments to SNAP and Medicaid, among other items. The House version of reconciliation includes a $250 annual fee for electric vehicles and a $100 annual fee for hybrid vehicles, with proceeds deposited in the Highway Trust Fund. However, the legislation does not require the proceeds of these fees to be split 80-20 into the Highway and Mass Transit Accounts of the Highway Trust Fund, respectively. Also of note is the inclusion of $1 billion for 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games-related security and planning costs. 20 H.R. 1 was written to qualify for the budget reconciliation process to avoid a filibuster and 60- vote threshold in the Senate. However, as of this writing, the Senate is releasing various portions of their own version of the reconciliation bill and any changes to the bill could prove controversial when the bill is returned to the House for approval. To date, no EV or hybrid vehicle fees have been included in the Senate's draft text. A path forward and realistic timeline for passing H.R.1 is unclear at the time of this writing. Prepared by: Jeffrey Dunn, Director, Government and Community Relations Anna Denecke, Senior Manager, Government Relations Sylvia Novoa, Public Affairs Manager Julie Nieto, Management Analyst II Approved by: Paul Hubler, Chief Strategy Officer Attachment(s) Appendix A - July 2025 Bill Matrix 21 Appendix A: Legislative Matrix Bill Number Bill Status Action State CA Assembly Assembly Bill 35 (Alvarez): Would provide 4/22: Re-Referred to Monitor for limited CEQA review of an application Committees on for a discretionary permit or authorization Natural Resources for a clean hydrogen transportation project by requiring the application to be reviewed through a clean hydrogen environmental assessment and would require the lead agency to determine whether to approve the clean hydrogen environmental assessment and issue a discretionary permit or authorization for the project no later than 270 days after the application for the project is deemed complete. Assembly Bill 259 (Rubio): Would extend 5/14 In Senate. Monitor a sunset by four years to 2030 on a Referred to Brown Act provision that allows local committee on Local government board members to remotely Government and participate in meetings under certain, Judiciary. limited conditions. Assembly Bill 394 (Wilson): Would 6/11: Referred to Support expand the group of people that Committee on committing battery against would entail a Public Safety and penalty of imprisonment in a county jail Judiciary not exceeding one year, a fine not exceeding $10,000, or both the fine and imprisonment. Would expand this crime to apply to an employee or contractor of a public transportation provider and would authorize the court, following a conviction, to impose a prohibition order barring reentry to public transit property, as specified. 22 Assembly Bill 476 (Gonzalez): Would 6/4: In Senate. Read Monitor impose additional requirements on a junk first time. To dealer or recycler purchasing nonferrous Committee on Rules metals, including obtaining proof of for assignment. ownership showing the seller has lawful possession or lawful ownership of the nonferrous metals, as specified. Assembly Bill 810 (Irwin) Would expand 5/23: In committee: Monitor on existing law to require special districts, Hearing postponed joint powers authorities, or other political by committee. subdivisions to maintain an internet website with a “.gov” or “.ca.gov” domain. Special districts, joint powers authorities, or other political subdivisions would have no later than January 1, 2031. The bill allows community colleges and community college districts to continue using “.edu” domains and exempts K–12 school districts. Assembly Bill 939 (Schultz): Would enact 3/10: Referred to Monitor the Safe, Sustainable, Traffic-Reducing Committee on Transportation Bond Act of 2026 which, if Transportation approved by the voters, would authorize the issuance of bonds in the amount of $20,000,000,000 pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond Law to finance transit and passenger rail improvements, local streets and roads and active transportation projects, zero-emission vehicle investments, transportation freight infrastructure improvements, and grade separations and other critical safety improvements. The bill would provide for the submission of the bond act to the voters at the November 3, 2026, statewide general election. 23 Assembly Bill 1070 (Ward): Would prohibit 4/23: In committee: Monitor a transit district from compensating a Set, first hearing. member of the governing board unless Hearing canceled at the member demonstrates personal use the request of of the transit system, as specified. The bill author. would require the governing board of a transit district to include 2 nonvoting members and 4 alternate nonvoting members, as specified. The bill would authorize the chair of the governing board of a transit district to exclude these nonvoting members from meetings discussing negotiations with labor organizations. Assembly Bill 1207 (Irwin): Existing law 6/4: Referred to Monitor requires the state board, in adopting the Committee on regulation to, among other things, Environmental establish a price ceiling for emission Quality. allowances sold by the state board. Existing law requires the state board, in establishing the price ceiling, to consider specified factors, including the full social cost associated with emitting a metric ton of greenhouse gases. This bill would require the state board to instead consider the full social cost associated with emitting a metric ton of greenhouse gases, as determined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in November 2023. AB-1237 (McKinnor) 6/2: Re-referred to Monitor Authorizes the Los Angeles County Committee on Transportation Authority (LA Metro) and Business, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Professions & Authority (VTA) to impose a charge of up Economic to $5 on the purchaser of a ticket from a Development and ticket vendor to a sporting event in the Committee on counties of Los Angeles or Santa Clara Transportation. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2026 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Men's or Women's Basketball Championship. CA Senate 24 Senate Bill 30 (Cortese): Would state the 6/5: Referred to Metrolink joined intent of the Legislature to enact Committee on fellow California rail subsequent legislation to restrict the Transportation. operators in signing resale of decommissioned diesel trains a letter outlining and rolling stock for continued use. concerns. Senate Bill 71 (Wiener): Would exempt 6/9: Referred to Support from the requirements of CEQA a public Committee on project for the improvement of bus rapid Natural Resources. transit, bus, or light rail service, including the maintenance, public projects for the improvement, institution, or increase of shuttles and ferries, and for the maintenance, construction, or rehabilitation of stops which will be exclusively used by zero-emission, near- zero-emission, low oxide of nitrogen engine, compressed natural gas fuel, fuel cell, or hybrid powertrain buses, shuttles, ferries, or light rail vehicles, as provided. The bill would exempt a project carried out by a public transit agency conducted in compliance with specified regulations of the State Air Resources Board relating to commercial harbor craft and in-use locomotives. Senate Bill 73 (Cervantes): Would 3/13: March 19 set Monitor additionally exempt projects located in a for second hearing low vehicle travel area. canceled at the request of author. 25 Senate Bill 79 (Wiener): Would make 6/16: From Monitor housing more affordable for California committee with families, reduce greenhouse gas author's emissions, and enhance public transit amendments. Read systems by, among other things, requiring second time and the upzoning of land near rail stations and amended. Re- rapid bus lines to encourage transit- referred to oriented development. Committee on Housing & Community Development Senate Bill 220 (Allen): Would expand the 4/28: April 28 Monitor Los Angeles County Metropolitan hearing: Heard for Transportation Authority Board of testimony only. Directors to 18 members, from the current 14 members, by adding the County Executive of the County of Los Angeles and three public members appointed by the County Executive. Senate Bill 545 (Cortese): Would 6/09: Referred to Monitor commission a study on the extraordinary Committee on commercial and residential economic Transportation and development opportunities along the Local Government. California High Speed Rail corridor focusing on increased land value, development incentives and public-private partnerships from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Senate Bill 667 (Archuleta): Would require4/29: From Monitor a railroad to operate a network of waysidecommittee with detector systems on or adjacent to its author's tracks, limit the total length of trains amendments. Read originating in California, and require that second time and stationary trains blocking at-grade railroad amended. Re- crossings be cut, separated, or moved to referred to allow passage of emergency vehicles. Committee on Transportation. Senate Bill 741 (Blakespear): Would 6/5: Referred to Monitor expand the exemption from certain Committee on coastal development permitting processes Natural Resources. for certain emergency projects undertaken, carried out, or approved by a public agency to maintain, repair, or restore existing highways to include certain emergency projects undertaken, carried out, or approved by a public 26 agency to maintain, repair, or restore an existing railroad track along the LOSSAN corridor. Senate Bill 840 (Limón and McGuire): 6/09: Referred to Monitor Existing law authorizes the State Air Committee on Resources Board to establish a system of Natural Resources market-based declining annual aggregate emissions limits for sources or categories of sources that emit greenhouse gases that is applicable from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2030, inclusive, and that meets certain requirements (market- based compliance mechanism). This bill would state the intent of the Legislature to enact subsequent legislation to reform, and extend the operation of, the market-based compliance mechanism. Federal H.R.928 (Deluzio) Railway Safety Act of 02/04 Referred Monitor 2025 - To enhance safety requirements to the Subcommittee for trains transporting hazardous on Railroads, materials, and for other purposes. Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials H.R.3194 (Moolenaar) amend the Clean 5/5: Referred to the Monitor Air Act to prohibit State standards relating House Committee to the control of emissions from existing on Energy and locomotives and engines used in Commerce. locomotives, and for other purposes H.R.3449 (Johnson) To amend title 49, 5/15 Referred to the Monitor United States Code, to establish a House Committee program to provide grants to eligible on Transportation recipients for eligible operating support and Infrastructure. costs of public transportation, and for other purposes. 27 ITEM 12.A metrolinktrains.com/meeting ITEM ID: 2025-286-0 TRANSMITTAL DATE: July 18, 2025 MEETING DATE: July 25, 2025 TO: Board of Directors FROM: Michelle Pena, Board Clerk SUBJECT: Approval of Meeting Minutes - June 27, 2025 Regular Board Meeting Recommendation It is recommended that the Board approve the Minutes of the June 27, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. Prepared by: Michelle Pena, Board Clerk Approved by: Noelia Rodriguez, Chief of Staff Don Del Rio, General Counsel Attachment(s) Attachment A - DRAFT 06.27.25 Board of Directors Minutes 28 metrolinktrains.com/meeting DRAFT MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Friday, June 27, 2025 BOARD MEMBERS/ALTERNATES IN ATTENDANCE: OCTA: DOUG CHAFFEE (Chair) (2 votes) RCTC: BRIAN BERKSON (Vice-Chair) (2 votes) KAREN SPIEGEL VCTC: TONY TREMBLEY (2nd Vice-Chair) (1 vote) Bob Engler METRO: ARA NAJARIAN (4 votes) TIM SANDOVAL Eric Ohlsen Walter Allen, III Pam O’Connor* Victor Preciado SBCTA: Javier John Dutrey (2 votes) Ray Marquez *Director O’Connor joined the meeting at 10:18 a.m. EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS SCAG Marty Simonoff State of California Marlon Regisford 1 29 STAFF/PRESENTERS: DARREN KETTLE, Chief Executive Officer DON O. DEL RIO, General Counsel NOELIA RODRIGUEZ, Chief of Staff BAHR, Chief Customer Experience Officer RAYMOND BARRERA, Senior Counsel, Risk Manager LUIS CARRASQUERO, Deputy Chief Operating Officer SAMANTHA CERDA, Assistant Board Clerk ALFREDO FERNANDEZ, Fare Collections Manager GEOFFREY FORGIONE, Associate General Counsel KEVIN GRAY, Chief Technology Officer HILARY KONCZAL, Chief Safety, Security, and Compliance Officer MICHELLE PENA, Board Clerk GABRIELA SARAVIA, Fare Collections Manager EDUARDO TOVAR, Manager II, Inventory Control CHRISTINE WILSON, Assistant Director, Finance Meeting minutes are prepared in a format that corresponds with the Board Meeting Agenda, which is incorporated by reference with these minutes. Board Agendas are available online at www.metrolinktrains.com under the Meetings and Agendas link or from the Board Secretary at (213) 452-0255.