Krista LaRocchia

The board discussed and addressed several key operational items, including a closed session focused on labor negotiations. Action items included the approval of a change order for the construction contract for well drilling and equipping, and the authorization of a professional services agreement for construction management and inspection support. The board also addressed various consent calendar items such as the approval of financial statements, the treasurer's report, and the procurement of booster pump assemblies and design services for pressure reducing stations. Additionally, the board received briefings on new water supply targets, federal legislative developments, and updates regarding artificial intelligence applications.

The Board meeting included the approval of publishing a report on unclaimed funds, the adoption of revised local guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act, and a public hearing regarding the status of vacant positions and recruitment efforts. Additionally, the Board considered resolutions supporting the Association of California Water Agencies' vision for water, reviewed financial statements and investment reports, ratified audited demands and purchasing card transactions, and presented draft operating and non-operating budgets. Executive reports and a closed session regarding real property negotiations were also conducted.

The meeting featured a joint presentation regarding developments at the Western Municipal Water District and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, focusing on water rate impacts, regional coordination, financial stability, and infrastructure investment. The Board and Committee also reviewed the California Senate Bill 72 concerning water rate transparency. Action items included the approval of financial statements, the acceptance of the treasurer's report, certification of cash sufficiency, and the ratification of the register of audited demands and purchasing card transactions. Additionally, the committee reviewed various purchasing reports.

The board reviewed and adopted revised local guidelines for implementing the California Environmental Quality Act. They also recommended publishing the unclaimed funds report and approved public hearings for the 2026 Water Shortage Contingency Plan and the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan. Additionally, the committee received information regarding the 2025 water loss audit results, capital improvement project status, surge tank automation, and updates on helicopter dip tanks, the Sundance property cleanup, and the administration building balcony repair design.

The committee held a meeting covering various operational and administrative items. Key topics included the recognition of staff for heroic actions during a fire, the approval of a mutual aid agreement with the Rainbow Municipal Water District to support emergency response and training, and the ratification of a new appointment to the Urban Water Institute Board of Directors. The meeting also featured informational updates on state and federal legislative activities, including progress on the Water Affordability and System Stabilization Act. Furthermore, the committee reviewed ongoing outreach and rebranding efforts, upcoming community events, and progress on water use efficiency programs, specifically the Crop Swap Program.