FSEC budget update: general funds restored, staff hiring planned; CCA funds remain uncertain

At the April 15 meeting FSEC staff reported a budget change that reduces short‑term uncertainty for the agency but left questions about climate‑related funds.

Nabila Gomes, speaking for interim executive director Dave Walker, told the council that an anticipated 15% reduction (approximately $240,000) has been returned and the final supplemental budget shows no reduction in FSEC general funds. "The final supplemental budget shows that there will be no reduction in general funds as originally forecasted," Gomes said, adding that the approved budget also provides an opportunity to add technical staff to the agency.

Gomes noted that CCA (Climate Commitment Act) funds may still face reductions later in the budget period and that more clarity about climate‑related funding impacts is expected in the fall. Council members asked about the agency’s process for developing requests for the next biennium; Gomes described coordination through DES and OFM and said the agency filed preliminary budget materials and will provide a more detailed update as plans firm up.

Gomes also introduced Keith Kanatza (joined April 1), who will serve as deputy for siting and compliance to help address capacity demands. The council did not take a formal vote on budget matters at the meeting; staff will follow up with further budget details and potential staffing plans.