The board approved golden mussel treatment in the Friant-Kern Canal. Staff said local emergency declarations do not qualify for the emergency funding discussed. A strong El Niño outlook raised the prospect of flood-management actions by mid-January, while two canal pools are slated to remain dewatered through January for construction. Phase 1 work continues; the Phase 2A bid date is November 10, with a December award targeted.
The Friant Water Authority Finance & Human Resources Committee was called to order on October 26, 2026, but lacked a quorum and conducted no substantive agenda business. Proposed dump truck and pre-emergent chemical purchases, counsel agreements, October bills, and financial reports were not considered. Julie Gantenbein said the committee would adjourn to its next regular meeting, announced for December 8 at 1:30 p.m.
The board approved a $17.75 million canal operations budget, up about 27%, with approximately $3.4 million in non-labor golden mussel costs. Staff moved planned canal dewatering to late October amid concerns about possible winter flooding. The board also approved a $3.06 million general membership budget and a 2.9% cost-of-living adjustment for eligible employees.
The board approved the intended award of Phase 2A construction management services to Arcadis (NTE $9.26M) for the ~2.7-mile parallel canal project, with final award delegated to the CEO; bids are due Sept. 18 and OBBB funds cover Phase 2A costs. Friant Class 1 remains at 100%; staff are tracking a potentially record El Niño for winter impacts. A Bowman algae study starts Sept. 9 on copper treatment effectiveness.
SOD ag allocation could rise 1–3% above 25% within 24–48 hours, while Friant Division remains at 100% Class 1. Staff discussed forecasts suggesting a potentially record-strong El Niño heading into winter. The Board approved PFM Asset Management to manage ~$230M in project funds, projected to net $1.6–$1.7M after fees with a conservative strategy.
