Tikneshea Hicks

The meeting focused on the 2025 Climate Action Plan implementation and the fourth annual progress report. Key discussion topics included an overview of greenhouse gas emission inventories, the impact of electricity use for water conveyance on emissions, and the alignment of the climate action plan with the climate adaptation master plan for water. The committee reviewed ongoing projects such as energy efficiency improvements at treatment plants, infrastructure resilience efforts including seismic pipe upgrades, and storm water recharge partnerships. Future focus areas include decarbonizing energy supply, expanding solar generation, and continuing nature-based watershed restoration efforts.

The board meeting focused on several key items. Public comments were received regarding a water mining project. A proclamation was made for Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The Board approved the consent calendar and authorized the general manager to negotiate a contract for investment management services with Chandler Asset Management, with a contingency plan to partner with Meter Public Funds Incorporated if negotiations are unsuccessful. Additionally, the Board received a presentation regarding the proposed operating and capital improvement project budget for the upcoming fiscal year, covering proposed expenditures, debt obligations, and revenue projections.

The board discussed and supported a resolution for Senate Bill 935 regarding local agency design-build projects. Updates were provided on the quarterly Safe Clean Water Program, including the development of storm water investment plans for the Central and South Santa Monica Bay watershed areas. Legislative updates covered gubernatorial election primary preparations, the Delta Conveyance Project, state budget revisions, and status reports on various state bills. Additionally, the meeting addressed federal advocacy efforts in Washington D.C. and ongoing negotiations regarding Colorado River water sharing agreements.

This Water Use Efficiency Data Study provides guiding principles and strategies for the West Basin Municipal Water District's water use efficiency (WUE) programs. It aims to enhance water supply reliability and facilitate adaptability by providing valued programs, aligning with state and federal priorities, promoting progressive technologies, leveraging external efforts, and using objective data for adaptive management. The study culminates in fifteen recommendations across communication and outreach, regulatory compliance support, and targeted residential and commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) WUE programs.

The Recycled Water Master Plan provides a strategic roadmap for the West Basin Municipal Water District to evaluate and plan for evolving water supply, demand, and regulatory conditions. Its key objectives include protecting and diversifying the existing water supply, augmenting the District's water portfolio, and innovating for long-term water security. The plan focuses on enhancing water reliability by optimizing existing facilities, such as the Edward C. Little Water Recycling Facility and its satellite plants, to produce five types of tailored recycled water for various uses, including industrial, commercial, public, and groundwater barrier injection. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure a safe and reliable supply of high-quality water for the communities served, with a planning horizon extending through 2040.