Green Empowerment Zone for the Northern Waterfront area of the County of Contra Costa.

Senators Grayson and Cabaldon propose extending and expanding the Green Empowerment Zone for Contra Costa County's Northern Waterfront area through 2040, adding four cities to the existing nine-jurisdiction zone focused on renewable energy development and workforce transition. The zone, which prioritizes access to tax incentives, grants, and workforce training programs, would expand to include El Cerrito, Pinole, Richmond, and San Pablo upon their adoption of participation resolutions.

The bill restructures the zone's governance by expanding its board of directors to include seven new representatives from environmental and environmental justice organizations, while modifying leadership terms to allow board chairs and deputy chairs to serve up to four consecutive two-year terms. A new executive committee replaces the current steering committee and must report annually on metrics including job changes, wage levels, grant acquisition, and workforce training outcomes starting July 1, 2026.

The legislation establishes a formal process for jurisdictions to withdraw from the zone, requiring an exit resolution and allowing a 60-day transition period. Previously awarded benefits would continue for at least two years after withdrawal. The bill maintains existing provisions requiring board members to serve without compensation and comply with conflict of interest regulations, including recusal requirements and restrictions on using the zone's name without authorization.