The agency continues managing tight cash flow through a 7.5% line of credit while awaiting biannual property tax revenues. Staff face pressure to complete substantial grant-funded projects before hard deadlines at the end of March, with concerns about spending capacity. The regulatory fee billing process was streamlined as the county handles most collections, keeping direct billing to just 126 water systems rather than the expected larger number.
The committee reviewed a new valley-wide demand management framework that uses staged triggers (Stage 0-4) to determine pumping reduction levels based on groundwater conditions. Staff analysis found no significant correlation between pumping and nitrate levels, recommending against developing water quality action levels since groundwater management wouldn't effectively address contamination issues. The committee generally supported the demand management concept but requested more details on..
A comprehensive demand management framework with 10 potential water use measures is nearing board approval, establishing a 5-stage implementation system based on groundwater conditions to ensure regulatory compliance. The framework would activate different conservation measures depending on aquifer health, with the 180/400 subbasin currently qualifying for Stage 2 intervention due to observed undesirable groundwater results. Advisory committee appointments were also finalized for ongoing...
The agency is accelerating into "ludicrous speed" with 15 critical decisions required in 2025-2026, including major project selections for addressing seawater intrusion and groundwater overdraft by fall 2025. A water efficiency program targeting rural residents showed limited reach with only 144 survey responses despite extensive social media outreach. Key feasibility studies for brackish groundwater restoration, demand management frameworks, and canal alternatives are all scheduled to...
