The board approved continuing Metropolitan's water standby charge for FY 2026-27 and FY 2027-28, a resolution supporting a Proposition 4 funding application for reuse testing facility improvements, and a $26,679,800 seismic upgrade contract for the Weymouth Administration and Control Building. A watermaster representative said the golden mussel issue is challenging groundwater replenishment for nearly 2 million residents.
Board approved the Proposed Biennial Budget (FY 2026/27–2027/28) with $150M for Pure Water SoCal planning/final design and directed a market study on selling two Delta islands. It separately approved a $1.025B CIP appropriation and a Webb Tract rice-farming lease with Martini Companies, LLC.
Rapidly deteriorating Colorado River conditions, with Lake Powell nearing the 3,500-foot trigger for emergency federal action, raised concerns about near-term operations and future risk. Staff said the draft 2025 UWMP shows Metropolitan can meet demand through 2050 under required test conditions, while directors flagged unquantified risks. Staff noted broader uncertainties are addressed in the IRP and CAP for Water.
Staff presented CIP funding options: $950.9M and staff‑recommended $1.025B (core $875M + $150M Pure Water), plus an alternative of project‑by‑project appropriations; no vote and discussion moved to FAME. Ops reported blending down to 0% SWP at three blend plants; TDS may rise.
Cordero reported Colorado River runoff to Powell projected at 5 MAF (52% of average) and risk of Powell nearing 3,500 ft — 10 ft above minimum power pool. Staff briefed Bay-Delta risks (levees, sea level rise, climate, regs, aqueduct subsidence). Minutes were approved; item 3C moved to closed session.
