Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—at home, on the road, or on your tractor.
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Groundwater recharge feasibility studies showed strong pilot results, with three projects proposed but not advancing without funding and legal review. SHAC broadly supported expanding the RMS network from 17 to 29 wells (no vote). MTs—described by one member as ~80 ft below historical lows—remain a major concern; staff will refine proposals for July 22 discussion.
The board discussed but did not adopt a 2027 budget, reviewing two options near $14M; a decision is deferred to July 8. No 2027 rate increase was approved, though $5–$10/acre was discussed as a possible future increase. Reverse auction contract language about eminent domain/1033 was discussed; staff plans to bring clarified notice language to the July 8 meeting.
A demand management framework is being developed using historical recharge trends, though pumping reductions remain decades away unless long-term basin recovery fails. The Groundwater Sustainability Plan update is due January 2027, with public hearings expected this summer. Separately, a brackish water desalination project addressing seawater intrusion carries an estimated $1.4 million price tag, with unresolved technical questions and a board recommendation pending.
The Board set the time and place for a July 14 public hearing to consider proposed Safe, Clean Water Program modifications for Projects E5 and F6, including a proposed San Francisquito Creek KPI rewrite that drew significant debate and a proposed expansion of public art grant eligibility countywide. The Board also approved $1,776,760 in FY2026 standard grants to four organizations for water and environmental projects.
The board discussed needing a demand management framework in place by the start of 2027 and emphasized grower outreach before harvest season. Members discussed possible funding options—including extraction fees, wellhead fees, and per-household fees—and asked staff to coordinate outreach materials with David's Engineering. The board also reached consensus to seek a Prop 4 grant-writing proposal from David's Engineering, with formal approval expected next month.
