Major GSA Implementation Timeline Ahead: The agency is entering "ludicrous speed," with numerous feasibility studies due in late 2025 and at least 15 critical decisions projected for 2026. These include project selection to address seawater intrusion and groundwater overdraft. Staff warned the board may need longer or additional meetings to handle the workload, with major feasibility studies for brackish groundwater restoration, demand management frameworks, and Castroville/Eastside canal alternatives all coming before the board by early 2026.
Water Efficiency Program (WEP) Baseline Challenges: The WEP survey targeting rural residential users received only 144 responses over 4 months despite 5,400 social media impressions, highlighting ongoing difficulties in reaching rural residents. Staff emphasized the program is designed as a baseline needs assessment for underserved communities who lack water efficiency services from major utilities. Home assessment visits will begin soon.
Project Selection Decision Point Approaching: By fall 2025, the board will begin shaping preferred project pathways, likely with a “Plan A” and backup options as feasibility studies near completion. Final project selection is expected in 2026, with staff stressing the need to ensure projects are operational and effective by the 2040 sustainability deadline—especially since infrastructure efforts can take decades to implement.
Approved: Consent calendar including August 14, 2025 meeting minutes with date correction.
No major new actions were taken beyond consent items.
For questions or comments, contact the agency at clerk@svbgsa.org or 831-471-7512.
The next regular Board meeting is scheduled for October 9, 2025. Public participation is encouraged both in-person at Salinas City Hall Rotunda and remotely via Zoom.
