Douglas Westley Owen

The Board of Directors discussed and reviewed the recommended Fiscal Year 2026-27 annual budget. Key agenda items included a public hearing for the Urban Water Management Plan and the Water Shortage Contingency Plan, which were subsequently adopted. The Board also addressed emergency repair projects for water mains on Las Posas Road and Radiance Way, approved position reclassifications and salary adjustments, and reviewed the District's capital improvement projects and reserve fund activities.

The Board meeting included a special presentation to announce the winners of the North County Water Agency's annual fourth-grade calendar contest. The Board also approved a consent calendar and addressed action items, including the approval of six scholarships for local high school and college students. Furthermore, the Board authorized an amendment to the professional services agreement with Valley Construction Management to provide construction support services for the Montiel lift station and force main replacement project.

The board meeting included several key presentations and action items. Special presentations were made to announce scholarship winners and contest winners for a water awareness poster competition. Action items included approval of position reclassifications and salary adjustments, authorization for emergency repairs to water mains, and acceptance of construction projects. The board also reviewed the draft fiscal year 2026-27 annual budget, received reports on water production and financial metrics, and held a public hearing for the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan.

The committee meeting focused on the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan update. Discussions covered the schedule overview, regulatory requirements, district water and wastewater service area demographics, population growth forecasts, and future water demand. The committee reviewed the current supply portfolio, including imported and desalinated water, and examined drought risk assessments and contingency planning measures. Additionally, there was a brief historical review regarding past reporting methodologies and state grant incentives for compliant water management planning.

The board discussed and approved a construction contract award to Shaw Equipment Rentals, Inc. for the Rock Springs valve replacement and pipeline condition assessment project. Additionally, the board approved a two-year extension of the general counsel services agreement with BBK, including a tiered rate adjustment. A report was provided regarding a water transfer agreement with the Western Municipal Water District, facilitating the sale of excess water supply.