Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts

The meeting served as a public hearing regarding proposed general water rate increases for the Los Angeles County Waterworks District 36 for the 5-year period of 2026 to 2030. Key discussion points included an overview of the Waterworks Districts' mission, infrastructure, and water quality testing protocols, the necessity of the rate update because current rates no longer cover operational and capital improvement costs, and an explanation of the difference between a pass-through adjustment and a general rate increase. The presenters detailed the rate study process, cost categorization (variable vs. fixed costs), and proposed rate structures, noting the average monthly bill for a single-family home is projected to increase by $10.36. The discussion also covered the utilization of a bill calculator for individual estimates and the procedures mandated by the Proposition 218 process for property owner protest and participation.

This document outlines the update of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Master Plan, serving as a guide for developing safe and accessible bikeways in unincorporated areas and along flood control channels. The update will propose new bikeways, reassess previous plans, integrate micro-mobility policies, and enhance transit connections. Its vision is to make bicycling safe, convenient, and accessible for all ages and abilities, guided by key goals of Safety, Equity, Mobility, and Accountability. The plan update is anticipated to be finalized by the end of 2026.

This Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) outlines how the Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts respond to water emergencies and shortages. It provides guidance for managing water supplies, mitigating shortages, and improving drought preparedness. The plan includes an analysis of water supply reliability, annual assessment procedures, six standard water shortage levels, detailed response actions (including demand reduction and supply augmentation), communication protocols, compliance and enforcement guidelines, legal authorities, financial consequences, monitoring and reporting procedures, and refinement procedures. The plan also addresses special water distinction features and is part of the Districts' Urban Water Management Plan.

The workshop provided details on the proposed annual pass-through water rate adjustments for the Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts. The presentation covered an overview of the waterworks districts, the reasons behind the rate adjustments, and the Proposition 218 process, which allows property owners to protest the rate adjustments. The proposed rate adjustments for 2025 were discussed, including the percentage adjustment for each district and the projected bimonthly bill. Programs to help customers save water and money, such as water use audits and rebates for grass replacement and water-efficient appliances, were highlighted. The timeline of the pass-through rate adjustment process and community engagement efforts were also reviewed.

The Board of Supervisors discussed providing relief to ratepayers severely impacted by the Palisades, Franklin, and Broad Fires. They considered forgoing or refunding water supply charges and other fees to existing District ratepayers displaced by the Fires who seek to rebuild their homes, businesses, and/or allowable structures. The resolution delegates authority to the Director of Public Works to forgo charging or refunding these fees, as well as water bill charges during the billing cycles of the fires, with revenue shortfalls covered through unrestricted system revenues.