Groundwater replenishment assessments were set at $250–$255/acre-foot for 2026–2027. Recycled water rates rise to $0.79/HCF effective July 1, 2026, and domestic water rates were approved to increase from $2.75 to $2.92/HCF on Jan. 1, 2027. McKenna abstained, citing reserves of $344M and a projection of $370M by end of FY 2026–27.
The Board unanimously adopted Resolution 1365 approving the 2025 Coachella Valley Regional Urban Water Management Plan and DWA's Water Shortage Contingency Plan. Staff and the consultant said groundwater supplies can meet projected urban demands over 25 years. Director Gracia asked about the Cadiz water import project; the consultant said it was not included in the plan, and Gracia urged monitoring of its potential regional impact.
The groundwater replenishment assessment rate is proposed to increase to $255/acre-foot for FY 2026-27, with staff recommending a public hearing on June 16, 2026 as the anticipated date to set rates. The State Water Project Table A allocation jumped from 30% to 45% despite below-average snowpack, boosting recharge supply availability. The groundwater basin continues to improve, with 264,000 acre-feet of artificial recharge producing a net 156,000 acre-foot increase in storage last year.
San Gorgonio Pass Subbasin saw a second year of positive groundwater storage change (~4,000 AF). Directors questioned future supply amid potential growth (Director Gracia referenced ~30,000 homes). Staff reported $9.7M in grants/partnerships since 2020. Draft six-level shortage plan presented; adoption set for June 2, 2026. Board approved SSMP 2026 update.
Board approved an agreement with Itron to advance the AMI smart metering rollout, supported by $875K in grants. Staff reported outreach with Palm Springs and Cathedral City ahead of Ordinance 80 enforcement; turf removal saves ~92M gal/yr. GM reported a draft Sites Reservoir water right decision issued Mar 20 with comments due May 22; five contract issues remain.
