The board discussed March 4, 2026 as a tentative irrigation season start date, pending weather and construction completion, with final confirmation expected at the February 24th meeting. Full water entitlement is expected for 2026 based on favorable reservoir forecasts, and the BNSF double track project was conditionally approved with a February 27th completion deadline.
The board's proposed Division 9 pressurized irrigation rate increase was rejected after property owners filed a majority protest. Directors approved a $218,360 budget increase for the pipeline relining program, which is exceeding efficiency expectations at 0.65 man-hours per linear foot. The board also authorized decommissioning a 1,000-foot unused pipeline serving a federal property for an estimated $125,000.
The District will reconsider its shift to electronic newsletters after feedback showed many customers prefer hard copies, with summer editions likely reverting to broader paper distribution. A grower meeting is scheduled for February 5th at 9:00 AM to discuss operations and answer questions. Water supply stands strong at 139% of average for the San Joaquin River Index, positioning the District well for the upcoming irrigation season.
The Board approved a major raw water charge increase for wholesale city customers (effective 2027), reflecting deferred rate adjustments since 2005 and actual system costs. An emergency $480,700 repair project was authorized for critical Drain 11 infrastructure serving South Manteca. Additionally, a temporary agreement allows the City of Manteca to discharge stormwater through district facilities until August 2026, addressing stormwater capacity concerns in southwest development areas.
The Board initiated the Proposition 218 process for Division 9 pressurization rates (2026-2030), shifting allocation so about 80% of collections fund maintenance and 20% build capital reserves projected near $850,000. A five‑year capital plan of about $185.5M was approved, led by the $70M Canyon Tunnel. The 2026 budget uses roughly $24.2M of reserves for capital, and Chinook salmon passage was the third‑highest since 2003.
