Sarah Macdonald

The board meeting featured the graduation ceremony for the 2026 Western Water Leaders cohort and the approval of the consent calendar. The board focused on authorizing the General Manager to execute exchange water purchase agreements with partner agencies. Key discussion points included the background of these negotiations, which aim to resolve previous legal conflicts and enhance regional water security. The agreement outlines a baseline supply of 10,000 acre-feet per year and a one-time pre-purchase of 30,000 acre-feet to serve as a contingency against future droughts and shortages.

The board meeting included a presentation on current water supply conditions, detailing statewide project allocations, Colorado River challenges, and storage management strategies. The board also discussed and received updates on major projects, including the Delta Conveyance project, the Sites Reservoir, and potential new reservoir studies. Additionally, a public hearing was held regarding the adoption of water and sewer availability charges for the Murrieta service area for the upcoming fiscal year, with the board approving the maintenance of existing rates.

The committee meeting addressed several professional services and operational agreements, including the approval of a project budget for a water supply alternatives study in the Rainbow Service Area and the renewal of a uniform rental services agreement with Cintas Corporation. Furthermore, the committee recommended the adoption of the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and the 2025 Water Shortage Contingency Plan to the full Board of Directors. Discussions also included logistical feedback regarding the formatting of meeting agendas and presentation materials.

The board meeting included a presentation by the Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful organization recognizing an employee as the Volunteer of the Year. The Board approved the consent calendar and authorized adding an item to the agenda concerning a time-sensitive financial matter. Discussions were held regarding the adoption of updated investment policies for fiscal year 2026-2027 and the ratification of the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority budget. Additionally, the Board reviewed proposed water rates and charges for wholesale agencies for calendar year 2027, including adjustments based on Metropolitan Water District's new business model which introduces fixed capacity charges.

The committee reviewed and recommended items to the full Board of Directors, including the adoption of rates and conditions for the disposal of non-reclaimable wastewater into the Inland Empire Brine Line and pretreatment compliance fees for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Additionally, the committee discussed the adoption of budgets and the levy of special taxes for Community Facilities Districts, received cash disbursement reports, and reviewed operating budget reports. The committee also received reports from the General Manager and the Assistant General Manager/Chief Financial Officer regarding water agreements and deliveries.