Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—on the road, on your tractor, or at home.
Board adopted a 5‑year strategic plan focusing on sustainability, operations, modernization, and engagement, with 17 objectives. California’s projected $15–25 billion annual budget deficits will constrain state funding for water infrastructure and increase reliance on Proposition 4 bond funds. The state allocated $20 million under AB149 for invasive mussel control, though total costs may exceed $100 million annually.
Board approved 2026 special assessments maintaining rates unchanged since 1997, with general administrative assessment at $4.34 per acre. A contract for $381,851.86 was approved to install traveling water screens at DiGiorgio Weir to improve water quality and reduce debris issues. The district is experiencing a strong water year start with Isabella Lake at 126% of historical average storage and above-average precipitation across monitoring stations.
Three managed aquifer recharge sites are substantially complete, preparing to begin operations December 1st. District has $1 million in an irrigation efficiency grant, though the remaining $196,000 pipeline installation faces weather-related deadline concerns. City of Loyalton's request for a new municipal well exemption was tabled pending submission of complete documentation including formal application, property ownership details, and justification for the exemption.
Board adopted strengthened regulations on fats, oil, and grease discharge from food establishments to prevent sewer blockages and spills. Several multi-million dollar infrastructure projects were approved, including water main replacements, solar energy installation, and system upgrades to enhance water delivery reliability. District received a clean audit for FY2024-2025, maintaining strong financial health with over $27 million, enabling infrastructure improvements without rate increases.
Board continued a public hearing on new grease/sand interceptor regulations with escalating fines ($1,000-$10,000/day) to December after cannabis operators raised concerns about compliance timelines. The proposed enforcement measures aim to prevent industrial waste violations that could result in state fines if the district's treatment plant falls out of permit compliance. Additionally, the Board approved an $80,227 contract amendment for solar project construction management services.
