Celina McDowell

The Executive Committee discussed the adoption of the 2026/2027 Annual Pay Schedule, the renewal of district policies for prioritizing affordable housing developments in compliance with SB 1087, and provided a legislative update covering various water-related issues and wildfire liability. Additionally, the committee reviewed the draft agenda for the upcoming Board of Directors meeting.

The board discussed a closed session regarding real property negotiations for the property at 140 Marine View Ave. in Solana Beach, specifically concerning price and terms of purchase. Additionally, the board considered the appointment of an Ad Hoc Committee to facilitate these real property negotiations.

The meeting included the review and filing of the 2026 Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment. The Committee also discussed and moved to recommend approval for several encroachment permits and agreements, including those for properties on APN 265-270-83 and 913 Lomas Santa Fe, Solana Beach (Dave's Hot Chicken). Furthermore, the Committee reviewed a contract amendment with Woodard & Curran regarding the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan, considered a resolution for property annexation by the Santa Fe Irrigation District, and reviewed future agenda items alongside various operational reports from the District directors.

The Board discussed various operational and strategic topics, including a presentation on water supply reliability from the San Diego County Water Authority, the reception of the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, and updates on employee milestones and new hires. Action items included discussions on the fiscal year 2027 proposed budget, the 2026 Retiree Healthcare/OPEB actuarial valuation, and the administrative draft of the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan. The Board also reviewed legislative updates, directed staff on the Larrick Reservoir property usage, and received reports on operations, facilities, and ongoing litigation matters discussed in closed session.

The Board meeting included presentations regarding emerging water deals, a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, and employee recognitions. Action items included receiving and filing finance reports, adopting resolutions for CEQA guidelines, PEPRA implementation, and water future support, as well as considering construction project awards for pipeline and anode bed replacement. The Board conducted public hearings on the Water Shortage Contingency Plan and the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan. Further discussions covered the proposed budget, strategic business plans, potential property utilization, legislative updates, and reports on operations and various board-related activities.