Marc Serna

The meeting included discussions on the draft agreement regarding systemwide cost allocations and facilities, specifically addressing liability and ownership definitions. Member agencies authorized the use of teleconferencing for future meetings. Staff reports for capital improvement projects, maintenance status, and budget updates were received and filed. The agencies approved the cost allocation for the upcoming fiscal year budget. Additionally, the committee awarded construction and construction management contracts for the transmission main unit relocation project and reviewed reports regarding emergency repairs.

The committee meeting addressed various infrastructure and project management topics, including a status update on the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project. The committee recommended several contracts and amendments for board approval, such as the Holly Drive Sewer Replacement Project, the Reservoir 5A-1 Rehabilitation Project, the West Street Admin Building Restroom Improvements, and multiple contracts regarding the Lift Station No. 2 Replacement Project. Additionally, the committee reviewed and recommended actions related to the JRWSS Joint Transmission Main Unit 3 relocation, support services for the San Juan Basin, the Groundwater Recovery Facility Brine Line, and a contract change for Sierra Analytical Labs. A general update on San Juan Basin Authority activities was also provided.

The Board of Directors held a regular meeting covering several infrastructure and operational projects. Key actions included awarding construction and inspection contracts for the Joint Regional Water Supply System transmission main relocation, authorizing construction contracts for the Holly Drive Sewer Replacement Project and the Reservoir 5A-1 Rehabilitation Project, approving various change orders for ongoing facility and lab service contracts, and extending a support services contract for the San Juan Basin. The meeting also included an update from the Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission and a report on federal advocacy efforts related to water and sanitation agencies.

The committee discussed and recommended board approval for filing a Notice of Completion and Release of Retention Funds for both the 2025-2026 Annual Gravity Sewer Lining Project and the West Street Admin Building Restroom Improvements Project. Additionally, the committee recommended authorizing a reimbursement of $248,523.96 to Caltrans for permit-related contractor work and approved a $100,000 contract amendment with Soto Resources for continued grant management and administrative services through October 2026.

The Board discussed matters in closed session regarding potential litigation and real property negotiations. Key actions included the approval of contract amendments for environmental services, field inspection services for a pressure-reducing valve replacement project, and a contract for printer upgrade replacements. The Board also approved an amendment for the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project, authorized a rate adjustment for legal services, and approved an amendment for geotechnical observation and inspection services for the Joint Regional Water Supply System. Additionally, the Board deferred the discussion on per diem compensation for another year and received updates on the capital improvement program and quarterly investment performance.