Soledad plans for future PG&E power shutoffs

SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION) Soledad City Manager, Brent Slama, is planning ahead of wildfire season. If PG&E turns the power off, people could count on the Soledad Community Center for backup.

"When there are disasters, or any other issues that come up, we want this to be a place that the community knows that they can come to," said Slama.

The City of Soledad is considering entering a 10 year agreement that would allow PG&E to use the center. It would provide people with access to their basic power needs. "PG&E would be able to come in and bring a team that would help to provide services to the community. The things you need when you don't have power," said Slama.

To mitigate fire risk, PG&E cut power on nine different occasions throughout California in 2019. The majority took place in September and October due to high wind speed.

PG&E spokesperson, Jeff Smith, said coordinating resource centers for the community comes with new challenges this year. "We've been partnering with local communities to identify locations where we can still set up community resource centers, should a public safety power shutoff be necessary. Our customers can maintain the proper social distance and we will require masks," said Smith.

Slama said the center has the space to keep people safe. "These planned shutoffs are unfortunate. That is a part of reality of life. The City of Soledad needs to be prepared for that," said Slama.

City council plans to discuss the agreement with PG&E on August 5.