A monthly update regarding the important work of RCRC’s affiliate entities, providing innovative services for the benefit of rural communities.
Fiber Is in the Ground: GSCA Marks Milestone in Glenn County
After years of planning, coordination, and hard work, RCRC Affiliate Entity Golden State Connect Authority (GSCA) has reached a major milestone: fiber is officially in the ground.
On Monday, June 15th, construction crews undergrounded 1,836 feet of fiber in Glenn County, marking an important step toward expanding broadband infrastructure in rural California. This milestone is the culmination of years of partnership among local governments, state agencies, and broadband stakeholders working to address the digital divide that has long impacted rural communities.
The work in Glenn County signals the transition from planning and design into visible, on-the-ground construction. Once completed, this fiber infrastructure will become part of an open-access last-mile network designed to improve connectivity, increase competition among service providers, and create new opportunities for communities that have historically lacked reliable, high-speed internet access.
Rural Counties ESJPA Updates Business Plan, Hears from Producers on SB 54
On Thursday, June 11, members of the RCRC Affiliate Entity Environmental Services Joint Powers Authority (ESJPA) approved the first update to the ESJPA Business Plan covering the years 2026-28. The newly adopted Business Plan focuses on enhanced outreach to both member and non-member counties to broaden ESJPA’s reach and participation, including increasing staffing capacity to serve ESJPA members. The plan also includes strategies for increasing ESJPA’s profile at the Legislature and various state agencies and departments.
At the same meeting, the ESJPA Board of Directors had an extensive dialog with representatives from the Circular Action Alliance (CAA) on the implementation of mandates to recycle packaging and single-use plastics. While the product producers are ultimately responsible, local solid waste and recycling jurisdictions will necessarily play a part in the program as collectors of solid waste from businesses and residences. ESJPA will continue to collaborate with CAA to ensure that local jurisdictions are fully funded for eligible costs under the program.
Finally, the ESJPA Technical Advisory Group met with representatives from CAL FIRE to learn how air curtain burners can be utilized for management of woody byproducts from defensible space and other efforts. Several member jurisdictions have been approached by the state to host burn days and programs, and ESJPA appreciates CAL FIRE joining to clarify regarding jurisdictions and how this technology can be beneficial.