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.
A San Diego CWA–Western MWD water exchange milestone was highlighted; GM said an intrastate transfers MOU info item will come in April. Biennium budget alternatives will be presented later that day. The committee approved minutes and April agendas/schedule, added a Chavez holiday renaming item to April agendas, and discussed department-head evaluation updates returning in April for action.
