The Guide Newsletter from CA Department of General Services

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us echo the sentiments expressed by Governor Gavin Newsom in his proclamation. This month serves as a tribute to the extraordinary contributions of Black Americans who have profoundly shaped our state and nation. As Governor Newsom referenced the theme "Black Americans and the arts," we recognize the impactful role of Black artistry across various media, inspiring change and fostering dialogue.

In our own journey within the Department of General Services, we cherish the diversity that strengthens our collective success. Just as Black art has been a powerful force for change, so too is the diversity within our team instrumental in driving innovation and excellence. Let this month be a celebration of unity, mutual support, and shared success as we continue the path toward equality, liberty, and opportunity for all.

Director Ana M. Lasso

The DGS Office of Sustainability (OS) Energy Savings Program is overseeing the implementation of a large energy savings project at the California Franchise Tax Board headquarters campus in Sacramento, using an accredited energy service company (ESCO) contractor. By partnering with PG&E under its Sustainable Solutions Turnkey program, this energy project will improve interior and exterior lighting by upgrading to LED and California Title 24-compliant lighting controls and upgrade the heating and cooling controls to allow for more advanced energy-saving strategies. Southland is the ESCO for the project. The facility is owned by DGS.

OS oversaw an energy audit conducted by Southland, which revealed that upgrading more than 21,000 light fixtures with new LEDs will reduce lighting energy demand by over 1000 kW and usage by 6 million kWh per year, resulting in an 83% reduction in energy used for lighting. Along with the lighting retrofits, the project will improve heating and cooling systems and improve occupant comfort with building envelope improvements to reduce drafts and summer heat gain through south-facing windows. The improvements will reduce the amount of electricity consumed by the site by more than 40%, decreasing the buildings' annual greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 4,000 tons annually and saving more than $1.4 million on yearly utility costs. In addition, the new equipment will reduce maintenance costs by more than $100,000 each year and free up maintenance staff from the constant replacement of failing fluorescent tubes and ballasts.

State Allocation Board Meeting

The State Allocation Board is responsible for determining the allocation of state resources used for the construction, modernization and maintenance of local public school facilities.

Date: Wednesday, February 28 at 4 p.m.
The meeting notice and agenda can be found on the Office of Public-School Construction website.

Next Steps to Contracting with the State of California (I’m Certified, Now What) Webinar

Learn how to pursue contract opportunities with the state of California after obtaining your certification as a Small Business (SB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE). Featuring a live Q&A, get answers to your questions and learn how to maximize your certification and find contract opportunities with the state.

Date: Tuesday, February 20 at 1 p.m. 
Webinar registration and details can be found on the DGS Procurement Division website.