Ben Bauer

The meeting agenda included consent items requiring approval for a conservation core contract. Regular items featured an update on water efficiency outreach activities, which are focused on customers with large lawns (over 50 square feet) and the top 10% high water users, including specialized outreach to Ross, Tiburon, and Kentfield communities. There was discussion regarding the need for better analysis of water demand influenced by weather versus permanent usage changes, and plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence for better forecasting. The board also received an update on the Gibson tanks. Public comments addressed water sales being below budget and concerns over fluoride in drinking water.

Key discussions during the meeting included receiving an update on current and planned water efficiency outreach activities targeting high water-using residential customers and those with significant lawn areas. The Board also received a construction update on the Gibson Tanks Project, which is in the second year of its four-year phased construction aimed at improving water supply resiliency. Additionally, the Board considered approving a two-year contract with the California Conservation Corps for forest resiliency and watershed trail work not to exceed $222,042.00. Other actions involved approving proposed amendments to the Memorandum of Understanding with the SEIU Local 1021 for employee compensation, and approving revisions to the Board Compensation Policy and Board Handbook Policy.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and adoption of the agenda, which included consent items, a contract review, board policy move, and a closed session. Public comments addressed the purpose of the ARK water pipeline, suggesting a link between it and outdoor landscaping water use, and concerns were raised regarding the Bolinus Road Pipeline project, particularly its seven-month timeline and impact on local businesses and the annual Fairfax Festival. The Board also paid respects to victims of the Castle Peak Avalanche. General Manager updates covered state legislative matters, including Proposition 4 funds and bills concerning rate setting and wildfire preparedness, with the Board intending to consider official support for the latter two bills. Committee reports highlighted the Bolinus Road Pipeline project advancement, plans for pump station fire hardening, and an update on SAP modernization. The Soma Marin Water Advisory Council confirmed a presentation on the rehabilitation of Loganas Creek and reported on water conservation efforts. Directors also discussed updates from the North Bay Watershed Association, focusing on Sonoma Creek restoration work.

The Finance and Administration Committee meeting addressed the monthly financial update, which reflected revenues and expenses as of the end of January. Overall revenues were lagging at 58% of the fiscal year target, driven primarily by water revenues tracking below the linear budget expectation. Water sales revenue was noted to be approximately 12% below target, suggesting lower water consumption compared to historical averages, which provided some offset to operating and capital expenditures being below budget. The committee noted that a deficit is anticipated, necessitating reliance on reserves, although savings on water purchases were projected due to recent wet weather. The discussion also covered the need to analyze the cause of reduced water usage, considering factors like rate elasticity, weather, and water efficiency programs, and highlighted concerns regarding the next four-year rate setting process due to assumed reduced demand. Finally, the committee reviewed the quarterly investment report as of December 31, 2025, noting that year-to-date interest earnings of $2.2 million were exceeding the budgeted target of $2.6 million, and conducted the annual review of Board Policy Number 33 (Investment Policy), recommending no structural changes but noting forthcoming legislative updates regarding fiduciary training requirements.

The primary focus of the meeting was the presentation and approval of a resolution commending Ranger John McConnell for over 20 years of dedicated service to the district and the Marin community, particularly in watershed stewardship, interpretive education, search and rescue operations, and forest/watershed restoration initiatives, including the development of the bike patrol program. Board members and members of the public offered commendations regarding McConnell's impact and dedication. Public comments also addressed water conservation efforts, referencing data on indoor water usage and quotes from a gubernatorial candidate regarding water recycling, capture, and comprehensive evaluation of ecosystem needs.