1. Domestic Well Mitigation Program Expanded — But Funding Level Under Scrutiny The committee approved amending the Domestic Well Mitigation Program so the existing $35,000 per-well cap now covers all reasonable components needed to restore a functioning domestic water supply — including electrical, pressure tanks, trenching, basic plumbing, and testing — not just drilling and casing. However, multiple grower organizations (Farm Bureau, Madera AG Water Association) pressed the board hard on whether the current $59/acre assessment is justified given the program has barely begun spending money. As of March 31, 2026, the program reported a cash balance of approximately $2.75 million (first half of property tax assessments) with only $25,453 in expenses and no wells drilled yet. Director Wamhoff requested staff deliver a realistic expenditure forecast within a week, signaling the board may reconsider the fee before the next tax roll. Staff confirmed they do not intend to raise the fee above $59/acre next year, but there was no commitment to reduce or pause the current $59 rate.
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