To: Board of Supervisors
From: John Kopchik, Director, Conservation and Development
Report Title: Weatherization Contract - Robert Gurule, dba Water Heaters Express
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
RECOMMENDATIONS:
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Conservation and Development Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Robert Gurule (dba Water Heaters Express), in an amount not to exceed $600,000, for the purchase or repair of water heater equipment, for the period November 3, 2026 through October 31, 2029. (100% State and Federal Weatherization Program funds)
FISCAL IMPACT:
100% State and Federal Weatherization Program Funds.
BACKGROUND:
The Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) has partnered with the Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) for over 20 years to provide energy-saving home improvements to low-income families throughout unincorporated Contra Costa County, as well as the County's 19 cities. This funding is provided by state and federal grant programs including, but not limited to, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), and the Department of Energy (DOE).
With these grants, the Weatherization Program provides homes with hot water heaters, furnaces, refrigerators, microwaves, doors, windows, LED (light emitting diode) light bulbs, LED night lights, Tier 2 Advanced power strips, occupancy sensors, weather-stripping, ceiling fans, and attic insulation. Homes receive a blower door test (a diagnostic tool to locate and correct air infiltration), and homes with gas appliances receive a combustion appliance safety test that checks for carbon monoxide gas leakage. Homes with gas appliances are provided with a carbon monoxide alarm.
Under its grant funding contract, the Weatherization Program is required to meet minimum unit production goals (number of homes weatherized) by the end of its annual grant contract term. Failure to maintain the required production goals may result in the state reallocating the County's share of funding to other counties and could jeopardize future funding.
Water Heaters Express will install and repair water heaters in low-income households through the Weatherization Program. This service is required by the contract between the County and the California Department of Community Services and Development. This contract will allow the Weatherization Program to have ready access to water heaters and other necessary supplies and equipment to weatherize homes and meet production goals.
Water Heaters Express was selected through a competitive bidding process, working closely with the Purchasing Division of the Public Works Department and following the County's established procurement procedures. The initial term of this contract will be for three years from November 3, 2026 through October 31, 2029, in an amount not to exceed $600,000, with the possibility of two successive one-year renewals for a total of five (5) years.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
A denial would prevent the DCD Weatherization Program from replacing or repairing water heater equipment for eligible low-income families in Contra Costa County. Failure to maintain the required production goals may result in the State reallocating the County's share of funding to other counties and could jeopardize future funding.