Board approved major infrastructure contracts, backed by substantial state and federal funding, including wastewater treatment upgrades and a consolidation project to address system failures. Community members raised concerns about rising bills ($400–$900 for some) and billing issues, and the GM said rates will be revisited during the upcoming budget process. Residents requested quarterly evening meetings after a strong turnout at 5:30 PM session that signaled demand for accessible meetings.
The Board approved a $5.64 million contract to replace aging water storage tanks in Wallace and Arnold areas, with new tanks offering 50+ year lifespans. Staff outlined ongoing water loss reduction work and said they will bring a comprehensive report in the near future, after data cleanup and staffing constraints are addressed. The district received awards in all three insurance categories for maintaining exceptional safety and loss prevention records.
The board heard a comprehensive outreach evaluation prepared in response to a Civil Grand Jury recommendation, highlighting extensive communication efforts and the jury’s confirmation that CCWD met Proposition 218 requirements. Staff and directors discussed geographic challenges driving higher costs and concerns about bi‑monthly billing, and staff noted a more detailed monthly‑billing report is anticipated around early February.
Board approved transferring $2.8 million from next fiscal year into the current budget for a major water transmission pipeline project expected to reach 90% completion by Mid 2026. After lengthy federal delays, $11.2 million in Army Corps funding was finally available for the Copper Cove Wastewater Project, allowing design and environmental work to keep moving. The board also expanded its leak adjustment policy to allow customers a second adjustment within five years.
The district faces increased costs of approximately $700,000 due to new USDA loan requirements forcing interim financing for a $10.2 million wastewater treatment plant project. Meanwhile, a water infrastructure project was completed nearly $100,000 under budget at $6.8 million. Multiple community members raised concerns about water rate affordability, particularly affecting elderly residents on fixed incomes, prompting discussions about potential assistance programs.
