Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—on the road, on your tractor, or at home.
The board approved ending the 2025 irrigation season on October 14th to coordinate with treatment plant operations, despite concerns it may be early for some growers. Labor contract negotiations with critical irrigation staff continue as a priority, with discussions moving to closed session. Water supply conditions look strong for next year with good reservoir storage and conservation accounts reaching maximum capacity.
The board prioritized water issues, reporting progress on voluntary conservation, certification programs, and recharge efforts under the Groundwater Sustainability Plan. Still, the basin faces a 3,000 acre-feet annual deficit, making continued action critical. Supervisors also advanced affordable housing policy, directing major impact fee increases for the first time since 2010–2014, with exemptions for smaller homes and higher fees for large homes and hotels. Transportation impact fees...
The board unanimously approved a reservoir expansion project designed to reduce reliance on expensive purchased water by increasing storage capacity through internal embankment construction. FEMA funding concerns are mounting as climate programs have been cancelled and hazard mitigation funding is being phased out over the coming years. Staff are advancing groundwater assessment initiatives and strengthening partnerships with regional authorities to better understand basin dynamics and...
Staff presented updated cost estimates for the Pure Water Southern California program, with Phase 1 now projected at $8.3 billion - a significant increase from previous $6.4 billion estimates due to inflation, supply chain issues, and scope refinements. The massive water recycling program would produce 150 million gallons per day through a 39-mile backbone pipeline system. Board expressed particular interest in direct potable reuse alternatives that eliminate expensive conveyance costs.
The GSA successfully exited state intervention and returned it to the Department of Water Resources for final review. Outreach efforts to the local grazing community generated strong engagement, with cattlemen asking detailed questions, prompting for a comprehensive November meeting. Development of the assessment fee structure continues with the next committee meeting scheduled for September 30th to determine funding approaches for ongoing operations.
